Zika Virus Infection
2023-06-15
Zika virus infection is a cause of microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome |
Zika virus infection is a mosquito-borne disease caused by Zika virus. Most people infected with Zika virus infection are asymptomatic. For patients with symptoms, they commonly present with rash, fever, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise and headache.
Zika virus infection during pregnancy is a cause of microcephaly and other congenital malformations in the infant. Congenital malformations can occur following both symptomatic and asymptomatic infection. Zika infection in pregnancy can also cause complications such as fetal loss, stillbirth and preterm birth.
Zika virus infection can also cause Guillain-Barré syndrome, neuropathy and myelitis.
Zika virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Aedes aegypti, which is currently not found in Hong Kong, is considered the most important vector. Other Aedes mosquito species such as Aedes albopictus, which is commonly found in Hong Kong, are also potential vectors.
Zika virus can also be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy, as well as through sexual contact, transfusion of blood and blood products, and possibly through organ transplantation.
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Prevention of sexual transmission
Advice for pregnant women
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For details on prevention of Zika virus infection, including those for pregnant women, women preparing for pregnancy and travellers going to areas with active transmission, please refer to the factsheet of Zika Virus Infection.
For other languages [हिन्दी (Hindi), नेपाली (Nepali), اردو (Urdu), ไทย (Thai), Bahasa Indonesia and Tagalog], please click here
For details on screening of blood donors to prevent Zika virus infection, please refer to Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service website. For further details, donors may enquire through hotline: 2710 1234.
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