What should you know about mosquitoes and Zika virus?

A mosquito bite does not confirm Zika infection. Many infected people have no symptoms, while others develop a short-lived combination of rash, fever, conjunctivitis, joint pain, headache or muscle aches. Symptoms overlap with other infections, so a clinician uses your symptoms and travel history to decide whether assessment or testing is appropriate.

Zika can also be passed through sexual contact. The infection is especially relevant during pregnancy because it can affect fetal development. Anyone who is pregnant, planning pregnancy or has a partner who is pregnant should mention possible exposure promptly.

Write down the places and dates of travel, when symptoms began, and any pregnancy or fertility plans. Arrange a GP consultation if you develop symptoms after travel or need advice about sexual transmission.

Prevent further bites by using suitable repellent, wearing clothing that covers skin and choosing screened or air-conditioned accommodation. A travel health consultation before future travel can provide destination-specific guidance.

Contact a clinician promptly after possible exposure if you are pregnant, become unwell, or have concerns about sexual transmission. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, collapse, severe dehydration, confusion or rapidly worsening illness; these features need assessment even though they are not specific to Zika.

Ask whether your destination and timing fit Zika risk, whether testing is useful, how long to use bite and sexual precautions, and what advice applies to pregnancy planning.