Zika virus in Thailand
09 Aug 2024
On 9 July 2024, the Thai Ministry of Health reported a total of 181 Zika virus cases (no deaths) across 31 provinces in 2024. Most cases (71 cases) have been in Central Region.
Zika virus infection is caused by the Zika virus (ZIKV). It is spread mainly by mosquito bites and less commonly from having sex without a condom. The infection is usually mild, but in pregnancy may cause serious problems in the unborn baby.
Advice to travellers
The type of mosquitoes which transmit ZIKV, are particularly persistent and aggressive biters. They bite during the day between dawn and dusk. If you are travelling to a country that has reported ZIKV infection, you must consider:
- avoiding mosquito bites, especially if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy
- using condoms and contraception if you are sexually active during travel, and on your return home for 2 months (if you are female) or 3 months (if you are male): this is to avoid sexual transmission of ZIKV and the risk of ZIKV in pregnancy
- travel insurance: if you are pregnant, check with your travel insurance company that you (and your baby) are covered under the policy before booking your trip, and be aware that the risk of ZIKV in any country may change during the time between planning your trip and travelling
- checking the 'Alerts' section of the country page for your destination to see if there are any additional travel recommendations specifically for pregnant travellers, those who are planning pregnancy and for preventing onward sexual transmission
Also see the Zika Virus infection page for further information.