Zika Virus Disease

Zika is spread mostly by the bite from an infected Aedes species mosquito (Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus). Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus and can cause certain birth defects.  Specific guidelines have been developed and updated for testing and careful monitoring of the health of pregnant women, children born to mothers with Zika and children with abnormalities.  Since 2015, Barbados has recorded 150 confirmed cases and recorded 800 suspected cases. The Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to monitor for Zika locally and internationally.