The Zika virus’ incubation period is about three to 12 days after the bite of an infected mosquito. The vast majority of infections are not contagious from person to person, however it may be transmittable during sex or pregnancy.
Men are at risk of transmitting the Zika virus for up to 6 months after the last day of exposure in a high or moderate risk ‘Zika virus affected’ country and/or after diagnosis, so should avoid unprotected sex for that time, particularly with pregnant women or women planning pregnancy.
Women should avoid unprotected sex for eight weeks after the last day of exposure in a high or moderate risk ‘Zika virus affected’ country and/or after diagnosis.
Pregnant women should avoid unprotected sex with a female partner for 8 weeks and a male partner for 6 months after their last day of exposure in a high or moderate risk ‘Zika virus affected’ country and/or after diagnosis.
