Concern about Zika — the fast-spreading West Nile-like mosquito virus linked to possible birth defects / microcephaly in the babies of some pregnant women who contract it — has been dominating the news cycle.
I recommend reading this NYTimes Q&A on the subject and this article in the Guardian for more insight.
The Government of Canada has released a public health notice, as well. The key points:
- It’s unlikely to contract Zika in Canada, as the main type of mosquito carrying the virus doesn’t have an established population here, and wouldn’t do well in our climate
- If you aren’t pregnant or trying to conceive, and you’re travelling to an affected country (in Latin America, the Caribbean, etc) take precautions to avoid getting a mosquito bite
- If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, and you’re planning on travelling to an affecting country, talk to your doctor, and consider postponing travel or taking more serious precautions against being bitten (such as using repellent, mosquito nets, etc)
If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, and considering international travel, it’s also a good idea to check for Zika-related national travel advisories.
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