Travelling while pregnant, mosquitoes, and Zika virus

The Zika virus belongs to the genus of flaviviruses. It is transmitted to humans through bites from the Aedes genus of mosquitoes. This mosquito bites people in the morning and at the end of the day. Although the disease is often asymptomatic, it may have serious consequences for the fetus during pregnancy (e.g., microcephaly). In infected individuals, the virus can be found in urine, tears, sexual secretions (vaginal fluids, semen), and breast milk. Sexual transmission is therefore possible, up to 9 weeks after the acute phase of the disease.
Vertical transmission (from mother to fetus) can occur throughout pregnancy. There is currently no treatment or specific vaccination for Zika. 

• Pregnant women: Avoid travelling to regions where Zika virus is endemic. If travel is unavoidable, the best form of prevention is to protect yourself against mosquito bites (see below).
• Male partner of a pregnant woman: Use protection during sexual intercourse (condoms) until the end of the pregnancy.
•  Women planning to become pregnant: Use effective contraception during the trip and for two months after returning. Inform your healthcare provider about the travel.
• Male partner of a woman planning a pregnancy: Wait at least six months after returning from an endemic area before attempting conception. 

A viral illness caused by a Flavivirus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It is endemic in many countries, with case numbers increasing in recent years. 

A viral illness caused by an Alphavirus, also transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. 

A parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, which mainly bite at night.
Several Plasmodium species exist, with Plasmodium falciparum causing the most severe cases.
If you are planning travel to an endemic area, follow mosquito protection measures. Chemoprophylaxis may be recommended depending on the destination (whether Plasmodium falciparum is present) and the nature of the trip (risk of parasite exposure). 

• Wear long, loose and light-colored clothing impregnated with mosquito repellent.
• Apply mosquito repellent to exposed areas of your body.
• Use insect nets impregnated with mosquito repellent.
• Make sure you only use mosquito repellents that are safe during pregnancy.