Zika is a virus that spreads to people through the bite of an infested mosquito. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and irritated, red eyes – also known as conjunctivitis. The illness is usually mild, however, in pregnant women, this disease can cause serious birth defects. Once a person is infected, they are likely protected from future infections.
It is important to note that both environmental factors and fomites do not play a role in Zika virus transmissions, as the virus is insect vector-borne. This means that skin cells, hair, and bedding cannot transmit this disease.
At the moment, no vaccines exist to prevent Zika. Consequently there is no Health Canada, EPA or FDA approved disinfectant efficacy test method against Zika virus. However, since this is a non-enveloped virus, products that are proven to work against non-enveloped viruses would be expected to be effective. EPA registered hospital disinfectants with label claims against non-enveloped viruses are broadly antiviral and capable of inactivating both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses.
Sources:
CDC Zika Virus Website
http://www.cdc.gov/zika/about/index.html
Zika Virus Fact Sheet
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