Pregnant with Zika: what should you know?

Zika is an infection mainly spread by mosquitoes, and it can also pass through sexual contact. Some people have no symptoms; others develop fever, rash, joint pain, red eyes, or headache. Infection during pregnancy can affect the developing baby, so a possible exposure matters even when you feel well. The timing, location, symptoms, and travel history help guide assessment.

Contact your maternity clinician or GP and explain where and when exposure may have occurred, any symptoms, and whether a sexual partner may also have been exposed. Follow the recommended testing and ultrasound plan. Prevent further mosquito bites with suitable repellent, covered clothing, and screens. Use condoms or avoid sex until a clinician gives advice that fits your situation.

Seek prompt medical advice after travel or mosquito exposure in an area where Zika may circulate, or if fever, rash, red eyes, joint pain, or headache develops during pregnancy. Seek urgent care for severe weakness, confusion, breathing difficulty, dehydration, or rapidly worsening illness. Do not wait for symptoms before reporting a known exposure.

Ask whether testing is appropriate, how the pregnancy will be monitored, what precautions apply to sex, and whether recent travel changes your antenatal plan. A GP Consultation or Travel Health Consultation can help organise the next step.