Zika infection GIS-based mapping suggest high transmission activity in the border area of La Guajira, Colombia, a northeastern coast Caribbean department, 2015-2016: Implications for public health, migration and travel

Abstract

Zika (ZIKV) virus epidemic is advancing in Latin America. Brazil, Venezuela and Colombia, among the most affected in the region [1]. ZIKV has followed the path of chikungunya (CHIKV) [2], due to high extended presence of Aedes aegypti, but possibly of other vectors (Ae. albopictus, Culex quinquefasctiatus) [3]. Travelers visiting or returning from endemic areas in Latin America are under risk of exposure, even more in international border territories [4]. In order to help in the pre-travel as well post-travel assessment (including in migrant groups), updated epidemiological information is of utmost importance, considering the availability of risk maps in order to address recommendations when visiting specific places [4,5].