Taiwanese medical experts are advising travelers returning from Zika-infected areas to have protected sex in order to prevent virus transmission.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) held its first Zika virus consultation meeting Friday with experts in the fields of obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, infectious diseases, and blood donation. CDC deputy head Chou Chih-hao said there has been a confirmed case of Zika virus being transmitted via sexual intercourse in the US.
“According to the latest data, the Zika virus can live [and be transmitted] in semen," said Chou.
"All experts advise travelers who have recently returned from Zika-infected regions, such as Central and South America, to wear condoms during sex. It is safer this way.”
Chou said the CDC is also advising travelers returning from Zika-infected regions to not donate blood within 28 days of their return, since the Zika virus can survive for up to ten days in human blood. The Centers for Disease Control list 30 nations under a second-level Zika warning. These include Mexico, Guatemala, Paraguay, and Haiti.