Should Travelers Be Worried About Zika?

Zika is a popular buzzword these days, and fears related to the virus spreading in the Americas is keeping travelers on high alert.

So, should you cancel your trip because of the spread of the virus in places like Central and South America? As of mid-Febraury, the latest advice from the World Health Organization was “there should be no restrictions on travel or trade with countries, areas and/or territories with Zika virus transmission.”

However, the CDC is advising special precautions for pregnant women: “Zika virus can be spread from a pregnant woman to her fetus. There have been reports of a serious birth defect of the brain called microcephaly in babies of mothers who had Zika virus while pregnant. Knowledge of the link between Zika and birth defects is evolving, but until more is known, CDC recommends special precautions for pregnant women. Pregnant women in any trimester should consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus is spreading. If you must travel to one of these areas, talk to your healthcare provider first and strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during your trip.”

With the constantly changing news of Zika, and the continued study of it by the medical community, your best bet if you’re traveling to infected areas is to consult your primary care physician before your trip, as they can give you personalized advice specific to your situation. Further, consult with the CDC website for the latest.