Quick read
Key points
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Zika virus is spread mainly through the bite of infected mosquitoes in certain tropical and subtropical regions, and can also be passed on through sex. Infection during pregnancy is a particular concern because it can cause serious birth defects, including microcephaly (an unusually small head, associated with brain development problems) and other neurological issues, with the highest risk linked to infection in the first and second trimesters.
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Topic-specific prevention and risk reduction will be added during the article-specific evidence audit.
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You are pregnant and have travelled to, or your partner has travelled to, an area with ongoing Zika transmission
01 · Know
What is Zika Virus and Pregnancy?
Zika virus is spread mainly through the bite of infected mosquitoes in certain tropical and subtropical regions, and can also be passed on through sex. Infection during pregnancy is a particular concern because it can cause serious birth defects, including microcephaly (an unusually small head, associated with brain development problems) and other neurological issues, with the highest risk linked to infection in the first and second trimesters.
Many people infected with Zika have mild symptoms — such as fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes — or no symptoms at all, which is why avoiding exposure through travel precautions is the main way to reduce risk during pregnancy.
02 · Understand
Clinical context
Prevention through travel precautions is key
Since there is no vaccine or specific treatment for Zika, avoiding travel to affected areas during pregnancy, and taking mosquito bite precautions if travel isn't avoidable, are the main ways to reduce risk.
03 · Act
When to Contact Your Maternity Team
- 1You are pregnant and have travelled to, or your partner has travelled to, an area with ongoing Zika transmission
- 2You develop fever, rash, joint pain, or red eyes during or after travel to an affected area
- 3You have any questions about upcoming travel plans during pregnancy
04 · Prevent & manage
Practical steps
Prevention Is About Avoiding Exposure
Since there's no treatment for Zika itself, the focus during pregnancy is on avoiding mosquito bites and sexual transmission from a partner who may have been exposed.
- 1Postpone travel to affected areas if possible.Check official travel health advice for current areas with Zika transmission before planning travel during pregnancy.
- 2Use insect repellent if travel isn't avoidable.Choose a repellent that is both effective and considered safe for use in pregnancy, and follow the instructions carefully.
- 3Wear long sleeves and trousers.Covering exposed skin reduces the risk of mosquito bites.
- 4Use condoms if your partner has travelled to an affected area.Zika can be sexually transmitted, so barrier protection is recommended for the remainder of the pregnancy if there's a risk of exposure.
- 5Seek medical advice after any possible exposure.Testing and additional monitoring may be recommended even without symptoms.
Medical information notice
Health education, not individual medical advice
BarnMD Health Library provides general health education for public health literacy. Reading this article does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and this information is not a diagnosis, prescription, or personalised treatment plan. If you have symptoms or concerns about your health, seek appropriate advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you develop emergency warning signs, seek urgent or emergency medical attention.
BarnMD Bottom Line
Zika virus risk during pregnancy is largely managed through avoiding exposure — checking travel advice before planning any trips is the most effective step.
If you or your partner have travelled to an area with Zika transmission during your pregnancy, mention it to your maternity team even without symptoms.