Zika Virus Infection in Texas (USA) (Update)
10 Jan 2017
As of 3 January 2017 the Texas Department of State Health Services
has reported a total of 294 cases of Zika virus infection (ZIKV). This count includes 20 pregnant women, 2 infants infected before birth, and 2 people that had sexual contact with travellers.
Please refer to the Health Protection Scotland ZIKV transmission table to determine the current risk category of any given country/territory/area:
Advice for Travellers
ZIKV is most commonly spread by mosquito bites, but there is also a risk of sexual transmission. There is a link between ZIKV infection and babies being born with birth defects.
- All travellers should practice strict mosquito bite avoidance, at all times.
- All travellers should have adequate travel insurance.
- Always refer to current advice on the ZIKV Infection page, which includes how to avoid sexual transmission of ZIKV.
- Pregnant women should postpone non-essential travel to countries or areas with High risk of ZIKV transmission.
- Pregnant women should consider postponing non-essential travel to countries or areas with Moderate risk of ZIKV transmission.
- Travellers that develop any feverish illness whilst travelling or on return should seek medical attention quickly.
- An individual risk assessment is advisable for pregnant women travelling to low risk areas.