Is Zika Virus Still a Concern for Travelers?

No, I am currently in Colombia and have not heard of any travelers contracting Zika. Since arriving, no news regarding Zika has been circulating. Nobody I've met here expresses concern about it either. So, I would say no.

Risk Analysis: Zika vs. Mass Shootings in the U.S.

Although Zika can be scary, consider this: in 2018, 117 people died after contracting Zika in Brazil, which represents a very small fraction (0.00005%) of the population. Meanwhile, there were 387 victims of mass shootings in the U.S., which is 0.0001% of the population.

In fact, the likelihood of being shot in a mass shooting in the U.S. is twice as high as the risk of dying from Zika in Brazil. If you’re not worried about being shot in the U.S., then you shouldn’t be overly concerned about Zika in Brazil.

It’s important to remember that the overall risk is relatively low, especially for travelers who are not pregnant or the male partners of individuals who are.

What You Need to Know About Zika

Around 80% of people who contract Zika virus do not even realize they have it, while the remaining 20% usually experience only mild symptoms. Two other viruses, Chikungunya and Dengue, are spread by mosquitoes in similar regions. Chikungunya typically causes fever and joint pain, while Dengue affects approximately half of those infected.

Chikungunya

Chikungunya usually presents with a fever and joint pain, and most patients recover within a week. Severe cases can lead to extended discomfort.

Dengue

Dengue is thought to affect about half of its patients. Symptoms may include fever up to 104 degrees, severe headaches, and joint and muscle pain, along with eye pain. These symptoms typically manifest 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

Taking Precautions

The main risk from these mosquito-borne illnesses is that you might spend a part of your vacation in bed, or bring a temporary illness home with you. Taking steps to avoid mosquito bites is the best way to stay healthy. This includes using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and staying in accommodation with screens.

Travel Recommendations

Despite the presence of these viruses, leading public health organizations do not recommend canceling travel plans. Instead, they encourage travelers to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consultation with a doctor is highly recommended.

If you are not pregnant or the male partner of someone hoping to become pregnant in the near future, there is little reason to change your travel plans because of Zika.

Final Thoughts

While Zika is a concern, it is a manageable one. Taking standard precautions can significantly reduce the risk of contracting any mosquito-borne illness. Travel can still be enjoyable and safe with the right approach.