Can Zika be Sexually Transmitted?

Published February 25 2017 inSexual Health
stopwatch1 minutes read

The short answer to the question of this post is: probably.  Although not definitively proven to the level that most doctors would like, there is certainly a lot of evidence to suggest that Zika can be passed on sexually.  Particularly from men to women.

 

Men and women who have a Zika infection will probably have mild flu like symptoms, and tend to feel better after a few days rest.  Afterwards they will how no long lasting medical problems as a results of the infection.  However, all this changes if a woman is pregnant.  Women who have a Zika infection can pass this on to their unborn child where it can cause significant health issues for the baby.   We have all seen pictures on the news of what some children can look like.

Zika is most usually passed on by mosquitos as they bite an infected person, it can be spread to other people they bite.  It appears it can also be spread sexually.  So if either partner has been to a country with a Zika presence and you want to have a baby, we would suggest either waiting for at least six months after you return, or having a Better2Know Zika test.

Our Zika tests are available across the UK, with results in just a few days.  We suggest that both parents get tested.  To book please call the booking team on the number above.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mike has been delivering world class Sexually Transmitted Infections testing services to Better2Know patients around the world for over ten years. He has written extensively on the subject, including numerous blogs for Better2Know which are designed to demystify the complex intricacies of sexual health testing. Mike wants to help his readers understand the risks they take in their daily sexual lives and provide the information they need when choosing an STI or STD test in a clear, concise and understandable way. Mike is particularly interested in writing about viral STIs like HIV and Hepatitis, as these infections can have a devastating impact on people’s lives if they are not diagnosed quickly. Only through being well informed can you best care for your health, and Mike is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience to help you and all his readers lead a happier, healthier life.