Views and Experiences of Travelers from US States to Zika-Affected Areas

Travelers to areas with Zika virus transmission are at risk of infection and of transmitting the virus after returning home. While protective behaviors during and after travel can reduce these risks, information about traveler practices or underlying views is limited. We examined these issues using data from the first representative poll of travelers from US states to Zika-affected areas, including US territories and Miami, Florida, conducted December 1 to 23, 2016. We analyzed results among all travelers (n = 1,285) and 2 subgroups at risk for pregnancy-related complications: (1) travelers in households where someone was pregnant or considering pregnancy (n = 72), and (2) other travelers of reproductive age (n = 631). We also examined results among those with different levels of awareness and knowledge about Zika virus. Results show that in households where someone was pregnant or considering pregnancy, awareness of Zika in the destination, concern about infection, and adoption of protective behaviors was relatively high. That said, sizable shares of travelers as a whole did not know information about asymptomatic and sexual transmission or post-travel behaviors. Further, concern about getting infected during travel was low among travelers as a whole, including other travelers of reproductive age. Few travelers consistently adopted protective behaviors during or after travel. Even among travelers who were aware of Zika in their destination and knew how to protect themselves, adoption of protective behaviors was only slightly higher. Findings from this poll suggest communications may be more effective if tailored to different levels of true and perceived risk. To address gaps in knowledge about transmission and post-travel protective behaviors, messaging should include facts and acknowledge the complexities of novel information and social context. Consideration should also be given to emphasizing other benefits of Zika protective behaviors or prioritizing behaviors that are most feasible.