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Communicable Diseases Agency

Zika virus infection

Zika virus infection is a mosquito-borne disease caused by the Zika virus.

Last updated 7 November 2025

What is Zika virus infection?

Zika virus infection is a mosquito-borne disease caused by the Zika virus.  

How is Zika virus transmitted?

Zika virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. 

Zika virus can also be passed from a pregnant woman to her foetus. Sexual transmission has also been reported. 

What are the symptoms of Zika virus?

Most people infected with Zika virus do not develop any symptoms. However, some may develop the following symptoms:

  • Rash

  • Fever

  • Conjunctivitis

  • Muscle pain

  • Joint pain

  • Headache

Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects in the foetus, including neurological complications and microcephaly, where the baby’s head is much smaller than expected. 

What are the risk factors?

Living in or travelling to Zika-affected areas.

How is Zika virus treated?

There is no specific treatment for Zika virus infection. Treatment is generally supportive. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be avoided until dengue virus infections are ruled out because of bleeding risk. If symptoms worsen, please consult a doctor for medical care and advice.

If you are pregnant and infected, you should seek further advice from your obstetrician for further management.

How to prevent Zika virus?

Individuals living in or travelling to Zika-affected areas are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites, such as: 

  • Staying in well-screened or air-conditioned rooms.  

  • Wearing long, covered clothing that covers most of your body. 

  • Applying an effective insect repellent regularly, such as those containing DEET, Picaridin or IR3535 as the active ingredient.

For couples who work, study, or live in a Zika-affected area.

During pregnancy: 

  • Take strict precautions against mosquito bites. 

  • Adopt safer sexual practices (e.g. consistent and correct use of condoms during sex) or consider abstinence throughout pregnancy. 

  • If your partner has tested positive for Zika virus, consult a doctor and inform them of the possible exposure so that the doctor can arrange for testing, if necessary. 

When planning for pregnancy:  

  • Take strict precautions against mosquito bites; and consult your doctor if you have questions regarding Zika virus infection. 

  • If either of the partner is unwell, seek medical attention promptly.  

  • If the female partner is tested positive for Zika, she should practice safer sexual practices or abstain from sexual intercourse for at least 2 months after recovery, before trying to conceive. 

  • If the male partner is tested positive for Zika, he should practice safer sexual practices through correct and consistent condom use or abstain from sexual intercourse for at least 3 months after recovery.