Zika virus travel notice for Nunavummiut

Public Health Advisory 

Zika virus travel notice for Nunavummiut 

The Department of Health is issuing a travel notice to Nunavummiut planning to travel to South and Central America, the Caribbean, African and Asian countries affected by the Zika virus. 

The Public Health Agency of Canada has confirmed travel-related cases of the Zika virus, which is spread through mosquito bites. Travellers visiting affected regions, especially pregnant women and those thinking of becoming pregnant, should take protective measures to prevent against mosquito bites. These include using insect repellent, protective clothing, mosquito nets, screened doors and windows. 

The Zika virus is suspected to be the cause of microcephaly (abnormally small head) in newborns. There is currently no treatment or vaccine against the Zika virus infection. 

Pregnant women and women thinking of becoming pregnant should speak with their local health care provider, or reconsider travel plans to the affected regions. 

For more information about the Zika virus and the affected regions, please follow the links on the Department of Health website: www.gov.nu.ca/health, or visit your local health centre. 

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Media Contact: 

Ron Wassink
Communications Specialist
Department of Health
867-975-5710
@email