## Is it Safe to Travel to South America with the Zika Virus?
The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause serious birth defects in infants. The virus was first identified in Africa in 1947, but it has since spread to other parts of the world, including South America.
In 2016, the Zika virus was declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO). The virus has been linked to a number of birth defects, including microcephaly, a condition in which infants are born with abnormally small heads.
The Zika virus is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Aedes mosquitoes are common in many parts of South America, including Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.
There is no vaccine or cure for the Zika virus. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid mosquito bites. This can be done by wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and staying in air-conditioned areas.
Pregnant women should avoid traveling to areas where the Zika virus is present. If a pregnant woman does travel to an area with the Zika virus, she should take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
## What are the symptoms of the Zika virus?
The symptoms of the Zika virus are similar to those of other mosquito-borne viruses, such as dengue fever and chikungunya. These symptoms include:
Fever
Headache
Muscle pain
Joint pain
Rash
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Nausea
Vomiting
Fatigue
## How is the Zika virus diagnosed?
The Zika virus can be diagnosed with a blood test. The blood test can detect antibodies to the virus, which indicate that a person has been infected.
## How is the Zika virus treated?
There is no specific treatment for the Zika virus. Treatment is supportive and includes measures to relieve symptoms, such as rest, fluids, and pain relievers.
## How can I prevent the Zika virus?
The best way to prevent the Zika virus is to avoid mosquito bites. This can be done by:
Wearing long sleeves and pants
Using insect repellent
Staying in air-conditioned areas
Using mosquito nets
Emptying standing water around your home, where mosquitoes can breed
## What should I do if I am pregnant and traveling to South America?
Pregnant women should avoid traveling to areas where the Zika virus is present. If a pregnant woman does travel to an area with the Zika virus, she should take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites. These precautions include:
Wearing long sleeves and pants
Using insect repellent
Staying in air-conditioned areas
Using mosquito nets
Emptying standing water around your home, where mosquitoes can breed
Seeing a doctor immediately if you develop any symptoms of the Zika virus
## Is it safe to travel to South America?
The Zika virus is a serious health risk for pregnant women. Pregnant women should avoid traveling to areas where the virus is present.
For non-pregnant travelers, the risk of infection with the Zika virus is low. However, travelers should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. These precautions include:
Wearing long sleeves and pants
Using insect repellent
Staying in air-conditioned areas
Using mosquito nets
Emptying standing water around your home, where mosquitoes can breed
Travelers who are concerned about the Zika virus should talk to their doctor before traveling to South America.