Traveling To Mexico With Babies: Zika Concerns And Precautions

can babies travel to mexico zika

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne viral infection that has been detected in more than 27 countries across four continents. The virus can be transmitted via mosquito bites, sexual contact, and blood transfusion. While the Zika virus does not pose a significant risk to most individuals, it can cause serious birth defects, such as microcephaly, if a pregnant woman becomes infected. For this reason, the CDC and other health organizations advise pregnant women and those trying to conceive to avoid travelling to areas with active Zika outbreaks. However, there are conflicting opinions on the risk of travelling to Mexico, a country that has had confirmed cases of Zika. While some people choose to cancel their travel plans due to concerns about the virus, others take precautions, such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing, and still enjoy their vacations in Mexico without any issues.

Characteristics Values
Zika Virus in Mexico 1 confirmed case in 2020
Zika Virus Symptoms Mild fever, rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle or joint pain, and a general feeling of illness
Zika Virus Transmission Mosquito bites, sexual contact, blood transfusion
Zika Virus and Pregnancy Can cause birth defects such as microcephaly
Zika Virus Prevention Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, use mosquito repellent, dump standing water
Zika Virus Testing Recommended for pregnant women with symptoms, or whose male partner has lived in or travelled to affected areas
Zika Virus Treatment No vaccine or cure, but medicine such as acetaminophen can relieve fever and pain

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Zika virus and its associated risks for babies

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne illness that has been linked to severe foetal brain abnormalities and developmental issues in babies born to mothers who were infected during pregnancy. While the virus typically causes mild symptoms or none at all in most people, it can have devastating consequences for unborn children, leading to a group of conditions known as congenital Zika syndrome (CZS).

Risks to Unborn Babies

Zika infection during pregnancy can result in an increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and a range of birth defects and developmental problems in the baby. These can include:

  • Microcephaly: a condition where the baby's head and brain are abnormally small, leading to developmental delays and intellectual disabilities.
  • Severe brain defects, including incomplete brain development and damage.
  • Eye defects, such as macular scarring and retinal abnormalities.
  • Hearing loss.
  • Joint and limb problems, such as clubfoot and contracted limbs.
  • Seizures.
  • Preterm delivery and low birth weight.

Even babies who appear healthy at birth may develop problems over time, such as slowed head and brain growth (postnatal microcephaly) and delayed meeting of developmental milestones.

Protecting Pregnant Women and Babies

To protect pregnant women and their unborn babies from the risks of Zika, it is recommended to:

  • Avoid travelling to areas with active Zika outbreaks.
  • Carefully consider the risks before travelling to areas with a history of Zika.
  • Prevent mosquito bites when in Zika-affected areas by using insect repellent, covering skin, and staying indoors.
  • Prevent sexual transmission of Zika by using condoms or abstaining from sex during and after travel to Zika-affected areas.
  • Wait at least 2 months (for biological females) or 3 months (for biological males) after travelling to a Zika-affected area before trying to conceive.

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Travel advisories and warnings for Mexico

The US and Canadian governments advise their citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping. Here is some important information to consider before travelling to Mexico:

  • Violent crime: Mexico has high levels of violent crime, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. Criminal activity and gang violence are common in many states, and there have been reports of innocent bystanders being injured or killed.
  • Travel restrictions: The US government has restricted its employees from travelling to certain areas of Mexico due to safety concerns. These restrictions include avoiding travel between cities after dark, not hailing taxis on the street, and using dispatched vehicles or app-based services instead. US government employees are also advised to avoid travelling alone, especially in remote areas.
  • US government services: The US government has limited ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in many areas of Mexico due to travel restrictions for its employees. Local emergency services may also be limited outside major cities.
  • Border areas: Criminal activity and violence are regular occurrences in border areas. Confrontations between organised criminal groups and Mexican security forces pose a risk, with shootouts, attacks, and illegal roadblocks occurring without warning.
  • Scams and fraud: Travellers to Mexico are warned about various scams and fraud, including credit card and ATM fraud, virtual kidnappings, and timeshare scams. Criminals may also spike food and drinks with drugs, putting people at risk of sexual assault or robbery.
  • Natural disasters: Mexico is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, flooding, landslides, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These events can cause significant damage to infrastructure and disrupt essential services.
  • Health risks: There are health risks in Mexico, including Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya, and rabies. Pregnant women or those planning to conceive are advised to discuss potential travel to Mexico with a healthcare professional due to the risk of Zika virus.
  • Driving: Driving in Mexico can be dangerous due to poor road conditions, aggressive drivers, and criminal activity. There are also strict rules regarding the import of foreign vehicles, and driving restrictions in Mexico City to reduce air pollution.
  • LGBTQI+ travellers: While homosexuality is not prohibited by law in Mexico, it is not widely accepted in society, particularly in rural areas. LGBTQI+ travellers may face discrimination or violence based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

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Preventing mosquito bites

While there haven't been any reported cases of Zika in Mexico in the last year, it's still important to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, especially if you're pregnant or planning to conceive. Here are some ways to protect yourself:

Cover Your Skin

If you're outdoors in an area with mosquitoes, it's important to wear clothing that covers your skin. This creates a physical barrier that makes it harder for mosquitoes to bite you.

Use Mosquito Repellent

Mosquito repellent is a popular and effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Look for repellents containing active ingredients such as DEET or natural oils, which help repel mosquitoes due to their smell. These repellents typically last between 1 to 12 hours, depending on their concentration, so be sure to reapply as needed.

Install Mosquito Netting

Mosquito netting is a crucial barrier to prevent mosquito bites, especially when sleeping. Hang bed nets around your bed to protect yourself from mosquito bites at night. During the day, you can fold them back out of the way. You can also install window and door nets to allow fresh air to flow in while keeping mosquitoes out.

Avoid Areas with Standing Water

Mosquitoes tend to lay their eggs in places with standing water, so it's best to avoid these areas if possible. This includes areas with stagnant water, such as puddles, ponds, or containers with standing water.

Stay Indoors During Dusk and Dawn

Mosquitoes are most active during dusk and dawn, so it's best to stay indoors during these times if possible. If you need to go outside, be sure to cover your skin and apply mosquito repellent.

Keep Your Surroundings Clean

Mosquitoes are attracted to certain scents, so it's important to keep your surroundings clean to avoid attracting them. This includes simple practices such as taking out the trash regularly, cleaning up any spilled liquids, and covering sweet fruits or drinks.

Use Citronella Candles

Burning "citronela" (citronella) candles can help repel mosquitoes, especially during outdoor evening gatherings. They provide light and create a pleasant atmosphere while helping to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Remember, even if you take all the necessary precautions, there is still a chance of getting bitten. If you experience any unusual symptoms after returning from your trip, be sure to consult a healthcare professional and inform them of your travel history.

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Zika testing and treatment

Zika virus testing is recommended if you are experiencing symptoms of the virus and have travelled to a geographic area with an active CDC Zika Travel Health Notice, or an area with current or past Zika virus transmission outside of the US and its territories. Testing is also recommended if you are pregnant, experiencing symptoms of Zika, and had sex with someone who has recently travelled to an area with active Zika transmission. Testing should take place as soon as possible while you are still experiencing symptoms.

To determine if you have Zika, a doctor or healthcare provider will ask about your recent travel history and symptoms. Testing may include a molecular test, which looks for the presence of the virus in the body, or serological testing, which looks for antibodies your body makes to fight infection. Blood or urine tests can help determine if you have Zika.

If you have tested positive for Zika, you may be at risk of passing the virus to your fetus or sex partner(s). You may also be at risk of passing the virus to mosquitoes if bitten, so it is important to prevent mosquito bites during the first week of illness to protect others.

There is currently no specific treatment available for Zika virus infection or disease. The treatment addresses symptoms, and cases clear up on their own. People with symptoms such as a rash, fever, or joint pain should get plenty of rest, drink fluids, and treat symptoms with antipyretics and/or analgesics. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be avoided until dengue virus infections are ruled out because of the risk of bleeding. If symptoms worsen, patients should seek medical care and advice.

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The impact of Zika on pregnancy planning

Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause severe birth defects in the baby, including microcephaly, incomplete brain development, visual problems, and other congenital issues. As a result, the Zika outbreak has had a significant impact on pregnancy planning for women and their families. Here are some key considerations:

Updated Travel Recommendations: Health authorities advise pregnant women and those trying to conceive to avoid travelling to areas with active Zika outbreaks. The Public Health Agency of Canada, for instance, recommends consulting a healthcare professional before travel and suggests that pregnant women may choose to postpone travel to affected regions.

Risk Assessment and Prevention: For those living in or travelling to Zika-affected areas, it is crucial to take protective measures to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of infection. This includes wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito repellent, and staying in accommodations with window screens or air conditioning.

Contraception and Family Planning: The discussion around Zika has highlighted the importance of reproductive planning and family planning services. Healthcare providers should discuss reproductive life plans with individuals of reproductive age, offering information and access to a range of contraceptive methods to help them make informed decisions about pregnancy timing.

Testing and Follow-up: Pregnant individuals who have travelled to Zika-affected areas should get tested if they exhibit Zika symptoms or if ultrasound scans show any problems. It is also recommended that they consult their healthcare provider for follow-up care during the first year of the baby's life to detect and manage any potential issues that may not be apparent at birth.

Partner Considerations: Even if only one partner has travelled to a Zika-affected area, couples should use condoms during sex throughout the pregnancy or abstain from sexual intercourse. This is because Zika can be sexually transmitted, and men can carry the virus in their semen for an extended period.

Emotional Impact: The uncertainty and anxiety surrounding Zika can be emotionally challenging for individuals and families planning a pregnancy. It is essential to provide clear and up-to-date information, address concerns, and support individuals in making informed decisions about their reproductive plans.

While the impact of Zika on pregnancy planning has been significant, it is important to note that the situation is evolving, and guidelines may change as health experts continue to study the virus and its effects.

Frequently asked questions

There are no restrictions against travelers visiting Mexico, but the CDC recommends that women who are pregnant in any trimester consider postponing travel to areas where there's a risk of Zika virus transmission. If you are travelling with a baby, it is advised to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as Zika is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Zika can cause serious birth defects in babies, such as microcephaly, which is when a baby has a small head and brain. It has also been linked to other serious problems in babies, such as eye problems, hearing loss, and seizures.

To avoid mosquito bites, it is recommended to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, stay in places with air conditioning or window screens, and use mosquito repellent that is safe for babies. It is also important to dump standing water, which attracts mosquitoes.

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