Zika virus is an infection spread mainly by mosquito bites that can harm a baby if a pregnant person catches it. Infection in pregnancy can cause birth defects, including microcephaly, an unusually small head.
Zika virus is mostly spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. It can also pass through sex and from a pregnant person to the baby. The virus is found in parts of South and Central America, the Caribbean, the Pacific islands, Africa and Asia.
Most people with Zika virus have mild symptoms or none at all. When symptoms appear, they can include a rash, high temperature, headache, red eyes and joint or muscle pain, usually lasting a few days. There is no specific treatment, so care focuses on rest, fluids and pain relief.
Infection during pregnancy can affect the baby's brain development and lead to microcephaly, problems with hearing and sight, premature birth or pregnancy loss. Anyone pregnant who has traveled to an affected area should tell their midwife or doctor, who may arrange extra scans.
Pregnant people and those planning a pregnancy are advised to consider avoiding travel to areas with Zika risk. Travel health advice from a GP or travel clinic before going is important. Preventing mosquito bites and using condoms after travel can lower the risk. For work trips, employers can offer alternatives so pregnant staff do not have to travel to affected regions.
Sources: WHO, NHS, MedlinePlus.
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