Zika virus Confirmed in India (Gujarat)
29 May 2017
On 26 May 2017 the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported
three cases of Zika virus disease have been confirmed by BJ Medical College (BJMC), Ahmedabad, Gujarat. These infections have been identified in samples collected between 10 February 2016 and 12 January 2017.
Advice for Travellers
UK advice for pregnant women is to consider postponing non-essential travel to India until after the pregnancy.
Since the situation is continually evolving, please refer to the Health Protection Scotland Zika virus transmission table to determine the current UK risk category of any given country/territory/area:
Health Protection Scotland ZIKV transmission table
Zika virus is most commonly spread by mosquito bites, but there is also a risk of sexual transmission. There is a link between Zika virus 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 Zika virus infection page, which includes how to avoid sexual transmission of Zika virus.
- Pregnant women should postpone non-essential travel to countries or areas with High risk of Zika virustransmission.
- Pregnant women should consider postponing non-essential travel to countries or areas with Moderate risk of Zika virustransmission.
- An individual risk assessment is still advisable for pregnant women travelling to low risk areas.
- Travellers who develop any feverish illness whilst travelling or on return are advised to seek medical attention quickly.