The National Travel Health Network and Center (NaTHNaC) in the UK recommends that pregnant women postpone non-essential travel to countries where Zika outbreaks are currently reported until after pregnancy. In addition, women should be advised to postpone pregnancy if travelling to affected areas, and for 28 days after their return (an estimated 14 day incubation period plus an estimated 14-day period of viraemia).
Pregnant women and those planning pregnancies who cannot delay travel to Zika-affected countries, must be informed of the possible implications of Zika virus infection on pregnancy. In addition, they should be advised to use mosquito bite-avoidance measures both during day and night-time hours.
Repellents containing up to 50% DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) can be used safely by pregnant and breastfeeding women (and children over the age of 2 months), but higher concentrations should be avoided.
Pregnant women who have recently travelled to countries where Zika outbreaks are currently reported should inform their obstetrician, midwife or GP on return to the UK for monitoring.