Zika virus was first described in the late 1940S in Uganda forest among macaque monkeys and few years late first human case was reported in Nigeria. The Virus poses serious public health risks, especially among travellers.
This virus can result in serious consequences including congenital birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. It is mainly transmitted through mosquito bites but can be also contracted sexually, through blood transfusion and from mother to fetus.
Travellers are should avoid going to regions of active transmission of the virus. Picaridin and DEET should be always used to repel causative mosquitos.
Travellers should (especially women of the reproductive age and expecting couples) always consult with a travel doctor or health care professional prior to departure.
For Zika virus updates, visit this CDC webpage.