Zika Virus in Anguilla
23 Jun 2016
On 17 June 2016, the Anguilla Ministry of Health received notification from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) of Anguilla’s first laboratory confirmed case of Zika virus (ZIKV). The case was an adult female, she developed symptoms in late May 2016 and is now reported to have fully recovered.
(Via Health Authority of Anguilla - accessed 23/06/16)
Advice to Travellers
All Travellers
- Mosquito bite avoidance is strongly recommended.
- Advised to seek travel advice from a healthcare provider at least 6-8 weeks in advance of travel, but particularly important if pregnant or planning pregnancy.
- Strongly advised not to travel without adequate insurance – pregnant women should check with their travel insurance company that they are covered under the policy.
- Male and non-pregnant female travellers should practice abstinence or use contraception, including condoms during travel and for 8 weeks on return to reduce the risk of sexual transmission of ZIKV particularly during conception or pregnancy.
Women who are Pregnant
- Advised to postpone non-essential travel to countries with active ZIKV transmission until the proposed link between ZIKV and adverse pregnancy outcomes has been fully clarified.
- If travel is essential, should be helped to understand the risks in order to make a fully informed decision.
- During travel, strict bite avoidance is essential. Advise use of barrier methods to prevent potential sexual transmission of ZIKV from a male partner during travel and throughout the pregnancy.
- On return, early obstetric review is recommended even if well.
Further Resources