ZIKA VIRUS IN PREGNANCY- What You Should Know

• The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne infection, which isn't harmful in most cases.

• Zika virus is spread by infected mosquitoes biting humans.

• Most people infected with Zika virus do not feel unwell. Some people may experience a mild, short-lived illness for 2-7 days. Symptoms can include a slight fever, joint pain, an itchy rash, conjunctivitis (red eyes), headache, eye pain and muscle pain.

• Zika virus infection is usually mild and short-lived. There is no specific treatment.  Paracetamol and antihistamines can be used safely.

• Pregnant women who have recently returned to the UK from a country with active Zika virus transmission should inform their midwife or obstetrician that they may have been exposed to the Zika virus.

• Pregnant women exposed to Zika virus will need to have blood and urine tests to confirm infection. If that test is positive they will need special scans for the baby.

• The scans will test whether the baby is affected or not. Confirmed Zika virus infection can lead to birth defects – specifically, abnormally small heads (microcephaly).

• Pregnant women should consider avoiding travel to countries with active Zika virus transmission, in order to reduce the risk to their babies.

• Pregnant women who travel to a country with an active Zika virus transmission should take all necessary precautions to minimise the chances of a mosquito bites. Use of insect repellents are safe.