Zika Virus
Informed by recognized medical guidance
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or life-threatening, seek urgent medical care now.
Overview
Zika virus is a disease spread mostly by the bite of an infected mosquito. It usually causes mild symptoms, but it can lead to serious problems for unborn babies during pregnancy.
Key facts
- Most people with Zika have no symptoms or only mild ones.
- Zika can be passed from a pregnant person to their baby, causing birth defects.
- There is no specific medicine or vaccine for Zika yet.
Zika is not common worldwide, but outbreaks have occurred in parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas. It is most common in tropical and subtropical areas.
Anyone living in or traveling to areas where Zika is present can get it. Pregnant women are at the highest risk because of the danger to the unborn baby.
Symptoms
- Sudden weakness in your arms or legs
- Trouble walking or moving
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe headache that does not go away
- Confusion or seizures
- ⚠Symptoms that get worse instead of better after a week
- ⚠Severe headache
- ⚠Red eyes that become painful or sensitive to light
Common symptoms
- Fever
- Rash
- Joint pain
- Red eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Headache
- Muscle pain
Symptoms in children
- Children usually have the same symptoms as adults, but they may be milder and sometimes go unnoticed.
Symptoms in older adults
- Older adults may have more severe joint pain and a longer recovery time.
Causes
Main causes
- Zika virus is caused by infection with the Zika virus, which is spread through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.
- It can also be spread from a pregnant person to their baby during pregnancy, through sexual contact, and possibly through blood transfusion.
Risk factors
- Living in or traveling to areas with Zika outbreaks
- Not using mosquito repellent or protective clothing
- Having unprotected sex with someone who has or recently had Zika
- Being pregnant or planning pregnancy in an area with Zika
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you are pregnant and have been in a Zika area and develop any symptoms
- If you have symptoms and are concerned about passing Zika to a partner through sex
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have mild symptoms and are not pregnant, you can usually recover at home. But see a doctor if you want a diagnosis or are planning a pregnancy soon.
Diagnosis
Zika virus is diagnosed through a blood or urine test that looks for the virus or antibodies your body makes against it. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and recent travel.
Tests that may be done
- Blood test
- Urine test
What to expect at your appointment
The test is simple and usually done at a clinic or lab. It may take a few days to get results. Your doctor will explain what the results mean for you.
Treatment
There is no specific medicine to cure Zika. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and resting.
Self-care at home
- Get plenty of rest.
- Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol to reduce fever and pain — but talk to your doctor first, especially if you are pregnant or have other health conditions.
Medical treatments
Your doctor may recommend medicines to help with fever and pain. They will advise what is safe for you, especially if you are pregnant. There is no antiviral drug for Zika.
Living with this condition
If you have Zika, you will likely recover within a week. Rest and drink fluids. Avoid mosquito bites for the first week of illness to prevent spreading the virus to mosquitoes that could then infect others.
Lifestyle tips
- Avoid travel to areas with Zika while you are sick.
- Use condoms or avoid sex for several weeks after recovery to prevent sexual transmission.
Diet and exercise
Eat a balanced diet to support your immune system. Light activity as you feel able, but rest when tired.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
A Zika diagnosis can be worrying, especially if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. It is normal to feel anxious. Talk to your doctor about your concerns.
Prevention
Yes, you can reduce your risk of Zika by protecting yourself from mosquito bites and by avoiding travel to areas with active Zika outbreaks, especially if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
Vaccines
There is no vaccine for Zika yet. Researchers are working on one.
Complications
If left untreated
- In adults, Zika rarely causes serious illness. However, if a pregnant person is infected, the baby can develop birth defects such as microcephaly (a small head and brain damage).
- Zika can also increase the risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare condition where the immune system attacks nerves, causing weakness.
Long-term outlook
For most people, Zika is a mild illness that goes away on its own. The biggest risk is to unborn babies. Thanks to awareness and prevention, many cases can be avoided. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- NHS (UK National Health Service) ↗ · United Kingdom
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.