MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falklands' has announced a health advice and warning on the ZIKA virus

The Zika virus is transmitted by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito which in endemic in most of South America, particularly in tropical weather and summer months

The Falkland Islands has joined the rest of the word and set out a health advice and warning on the worldwide increase in the ZIKA virus. The message is from the Director of Health and Acting Chief Medical Officer and outlines precautions to be taken against the virus which for the most part carried via mosquitoes.

 There is a worldwide increase in the ZIKA virus. The virus is for the most part carried via mosquitos.

The virus presents with a viral illness and rash however for some high risk groups there are greater problems:

Pregnant women in the affected areas have been giving birth to babies with microcephaly.

 Those with reduced immunity may find recovery from the illness takes longer.

The present recommendations from the national travel advice website are:

Those who are pregnant, or those with severe chronic illness or immune system disorders, are advised to seek advice from a health professional before travel to areas where ZIKA Virus outbreaks are currently reported;

Pregnant women are advised to reconsider travel plans.

There is regularly updated information on the UK National Travel Advice Website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice