Aedes albopictus, can transmit the Zika virus

The detection of autochthonous cases of Zika virus infection indicates that the virus is spreading geographically to previously unaffected areas, and in this case to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The notification of autochthonous transmission in a new country does not change the overall risk assessment.

Chinese health authorities ordered cleaning of public areas to prevent the spread of viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, including Zika, nine cases of which have been detected in the country till now.

- The latest advice and information is available on the Ministry of Health website or the Travel Safe website.

Thousands of children in Brazil have been born with suspected cases of microcephaly, in which infants are born with smaller-than-usual brains, which is linked to the Zika virus. The virus is not actively being transmitted. This can be achieved by reducing the number of natural and artificial water-filled habitats that support mosquito larvae, reducing the adult mosquito populations around at-risk communities and by using barriers such as insect screens, closed doors and windows, long clothing and repellents.

Men showing symptoms are the only ones thus far known to have sexually transmitted the virus, so if your male partner has traveled to an area of the world where zika is running rapid, then it's necessary you take precautions.

The Zika virus can be found in parts of Africa, southern Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas, and may also be present in other countries that have the mosquitoes that are able to spread it. She was bitten by a mosquito, was infected there and has recovered.