Is there a cure for Zika virus?

Zika is an infection spread mainly by infected mosquitoes. Many people have mild illness or no symptoms, but fever, rash, joint pain, red eyes and headache can occur. Similar symptoms can come from other infections, so a clinician may consider your symptoms, travel history and possible exposure when deciding whether assessment or testing is appropriate.

Rest and drink enough fluid to avoid dehydration. Use only symptom medicines that a clinician or pharmacist considers suitable for you; avoid aspirin and other medicines that may increase bleeding risk until dengue has been considered. Prevent mosquito bites while unwell, because mosquitoes can acquire the virus from an infected person. Use condoms or avoid sex for the period advised by a clinician, particularly during pregnancy planning or pregnancy. A GP Consultation can help assess symptoms and other possible causes.

Arrange medical advice promptly after possible exposure if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, immunocompromised or have significant symptoms. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, inability to keep fluids down, unusual bleeding or severe abdominal pain. A Travel Health Consultation can help before or after travel to an area where Zika may circulate.

Ask whether your symptoms fit Zika or another infection, whether testing is useful, which pain or fever medicine is suitable, how long to prevent mosquito bites, and what sexual-health precautions apply to you or a partner.