Zika Virus Infection in Texas (USA) (Update)
28 Feb 2017
On 24 February 2017 the Hidalgo County Health Department reported
a zika case from the City of McAllen. No travel history outside Hidalgo County has been established and further investigation is ongoing. The last locally acquired case in Texas was reported on 25 January 2017.
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.