Zika virus

Current status

Zika virus can cause a short illness similar to dengue fever, but milder. No cases of locally-acquired Zika virus have been reported in Queensland and Zika is not known to be present in local mosquitoes. However, some people have contracted Zika overseas and returned to Queensland. Find out from which countries notified cases of Zika in Queensland have been acquired.

Zika infection is a notifiable condition. Imported cases of Zika virus will be reported in the weekly notifiable conditions report.

Zika virus can be transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that are found in north, central and parts of southern Queensland. A secondary mosquito, Aedes albopictus can also transmit Zika virus. These mosquitoes are only found in the Torres Strait. It is possible that local Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes could pick up the virus by biting an infected traveller. This could lead to further local cases.

Zika virus can also spread through sexual activity. People who have travelled to a Zika affected area, or who have had Zika should avoid unprotected sex.

For more information on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, refer to The Department of Health Zika Virus Factsheet.

Zika virus can be harmful to unborn babies, so pregnant women or women planning pregnancy should consider deferring travel to Zika affected areas.

International updates are available from Department of Health Zika country classifications.

About Zika

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Last updated: 21 February 2020