As of 28 March 2026, Bolivia has reported 1’168 Zika cases since the start of the year, a sharp increase compared with 130 cases in the same period in 2025. This figure is already approaching the total of 1’224 cases recorded for the whole year 2025.
Although the US CDC does not classify Bolivia as an area with an active Zika outbreak (see CDC Zika Travel Health Notices), increased transmission in the country should be assumed.
Travelling in pregnancy poses an increased risk for the mother and the baby for mosquito-transmitted diseases. Please refer to the pregnancy factsheet.
Prevention:
- Always protect yourself from mosquito bites during the day and early evening, see factsheet mosquito-bite prevention.
- If traveling in an area with increased risk of Zika transmission – as it is in Bolivia:
- If you are pregnant: women at any stage of pregnancy should reconsider their travel plans. If travel is essential, consult a travel medicine specialist before departure.
- If your partner is pregnant: use condoms throughout pregnancy to prevent possible sexual transmission of Zika.
- If you or your partner is planning to become pregnant:
- Use condoms throughout your trip and for at least two months after returning home to prevent possible sexual transmission of Zika without symptoms.
- You should wait at least 2 months after returning from an area with an increased risk of Zika transmission before getting pregnant.
- If you are pregnant: women at any stage of pregnancy should reconsider their travel plans. If travel is essential, consult a travel medicine specialist before departure.
