Zika virus is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species of mosquito. The mosquitoes that can spread the virus are not normally found in New Zealand, but they are found in many countries around the world.
Only about 1 in 5 people infected with Zika virus will develop symptoms, and symptoms include low grade fever, rash, red eyes and joint pain. There is currently no vaccine to treat Zika virus.
Zika virus can be passed from a mother to her baby during pregnancy and infection is linked to birth defects in babies.
Further information
The Ministry of Health website holds the most up-to-date information on Zika virus:
A Ministry of Health factsheet on Zika advice for the public is available below and is available in different languages to download from the Ministry of Health website at www.health.govt.nz
