US warns travelers to Southeast Asia over Zika virus

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned travelers to Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, due to the spread of the Zika virus.

In a statement on September 29, the center said: "CDC recommends that pregnant women consider postponing nonessential travel to these countries due to the risk of Zika virus infection."

The countries on the list include: Vietnam, Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, East Timor and the South Asian island nation of Maldives.

Zika virus can cause microcephaly in fetuses. Photo: Holidayextras.

The Zika virus, which is transmitted mainly by Aedes mosquitoes, has spread to parts of the Americas and Asia in recent times. Cases have been reported in Miami, Florida. The CDC says the virus has been present in Southeast Asia for several years, with many residents having immunity. What concerns the CDC is travelers from the United States to the region, especially given the recent cases.

About 20% of people infected with Zika have symptoms of fever, rash, joint pain and red eyes. The virus can cause microcephaly in pregnant women. It has also been linked to a neurological disorder called Guillain-Barré syndrome.

According to Zing.vn