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Zika virus is usually caught by being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Very rarely, you can get the virus by having sex with someone who has it.
Zika virus is found in parts of:
The type of mosquitoes that carry Zika virus are not found in the UK.
It's important to check the risk for the country you're going to before you travel.
Find out more about the Zika virus risk in specific countries on the Travel Health Pro website
If you're travelling to an area where Zika virus is found, get advice from your GP surgery, a pharmacy or travel clinic before you go.
It's best to do this at least 4 to 6 weeks before you travel, but you can still get advice at the last minute if you need to.
There are things you can do to avoid getting Zika virus while you're travelling.
use insect repellent on your skin – make sure it's 50% DEET-based
sleep under mosquito nets treated with insecticide
wear loose clothing that covers your arms and legs – the mosquitoes that carry Zika virus are most active during the day
You should consider avoiding travelling to a country with a risk of Zika virus if you're pregnant or planning a pregnancy in the near future.
Zika virus can seriously harm your baby if you have the virus while you're pregnant.
Most people have few or no symptoms if they get Zika virus.
If you do have symptoms, they're usually mild and last around 2 to 7 days.
The most common symptoms include:
You've recently travelled to a country with a Zika virus risk and:
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
Get medical advice quickly if you have Zika virus symptoms while you're travelling.
There are no specific treatments for Zika virus.
If you have symptoms, you should:
If you're pregnant and have Zika virus, your midwife or hospital doctor (obstetrician) will talk about the risk with you.
They may arrange a blood test and an ultrasound scan to check your baby's growth and development.
You may also be referred to a specialist for more monitoring.
Zika virus can cause serious problems during and after pregnancy, such as:
If there's a chance you or your partner could get pregnant, you should:
If you or your partner are already pregnant, use condoms during and after your visit to a country with a Zika virus risk and for the rest of your pregnancy.
Speak to your midwife or doctor for advice if you're worried your unborn baby may be affected by Zika virus.
Rarely, Zika virus can cause Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a serious condition that affects the nervous system.
Anyone can get Guillain-Barré syndrome, but it mainly affects adults and older children.
You've recently travelled to a country with a Zika virus risk and:
