Are you pregnant or planning to become pregnant? If so then you’ve probably got questions about pregnancy and Zika virus, particularly if you’ve recently travelled or are planning to travel.

To help you navigate the current information on pregnancy and Zika virus, we’ve collected together all the frequently asked questions with links to the most up to date information available to pregnant women, particular those in Australia.

Zika virus and pregnancy: Everything you need to know

What is Zika virus and what are the symptoms?

Zika virus is not a new phenomenon, it has been around since at least the 1940’s and originated in the Zika region of Uganda. The symptoms are generally mild and include fever, rash and red eyes, similar to a mind form of dengue fever.

The outbreak of Zika virus currently occurring in South America has caused widespread concern due to possible links with birth defects, in particular microcephaly.

You can find more information about Zika virus, how it spreads and Australian specific information on Zika virus here.

Does Zika virus cause birth defects?

A causal link between birth defects and Zika virus infection during pregnancy has not yet been definitively confirmed, but there is significant evidence that Zika virus during pregnancy is associated with microcephaly in newborn babies. It is not clear whether this link is due specifically to Zika infection or possibly Zika combined with previous Dengue or Yellow Fever infection.

Over 4000 babies in Brazil have been born with mircocephaly in recently months since the recent Zika outbreak compared to an average of under 200 a year.

What is microcephaly?

Microcephaly is a neurodevelopmental condition in the newborn characterised by significantly below average head size and incomplete brain development. Children affected generally suffer intellectual disability as well as possible hearing and vision loss, siezures and other medical complications.

Is there a vaccine or treatment for Zika virus?

There is currently no vaccine or treatment for Zika virus. The only way to protect yourself is to avoid being bitten by infected mosquitos.

Should pregnant women avoid travel?

The Australian Government is currently advising pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant to avoid travel to any Zika affected areas. An up to date list can be found on the Smart Traveller website and changes constantly.

I am pregnant and was planning to attend the Rio Olympics, should I cancel?

The current advice is to avoid all travel to South America if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Women in South America are being advised to delay becoming pregnant due to the very high risk of Zika infection. This applies to any gestation of pregnancy.

Can pregnant women catch Zika virus in Australia?

Zika virus has not been found in local mosquitos to date so it is currently not possible to catch Zika virus locally in Australia. The only mosquitos capable of carrying Zika virus are found in Far North Queensland.

Is Zika virus sexually transmitted?

There is some evidence Zika virus may be able to transmit sexually in specific cases. If your partner has recently returned from a Zika infected are and you are pregnant or planning pregnancy it would be wise to speak to your GP.

Can Zika virus be passed from mother to child?

There is evidence that Zika virus can be passed from mother to child during pregnancy. If you are pregnant and think you may have contracted Zika virus seek immediate medical attention.

What should I do if I’m pregnant and have travelled to a Zika virus area?

If you have recently returned from a Zika infected area and are pregnant or planning to become pregnant it is recommended you seek further advise from your GP immediately. The Government Pregnancy, Birth and Baby info line will also be able to provide further advice. See their website for contact details.

I previously visited a Zika virus area and am now planning to try and conceive. Is it safe?

Zika virus can remain in your system for a period of time so you would be best to seek advice from your GP or the Pregnancy, Birth and Baby info line on your specific situation.

The main thing to understand is that Zika virus is not currently transmitted locally in Australia. If you’ve not travelled outside of Australia then you and your baby are not at risk. Even if you have travelled outside Australia the chances are slim that you’ve been infected and even smaller that you’re baby will be affected. See your local GP if you have any concerns.