Two cases of the Zika virus have been confirmed in Ireland.

According to the HSE, a man and a woman, who are unknown to each other, were found to have the virus after travelling to an affected country. However, both people have recovered from the infection.

Zika virus disease is spread via the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito and those affected usually develop a skin rash, mild fever and conjunctivitis. Symptoms normally last between two and seven days.

However, concern has been expressed about the risk to pregnant women, as the virus appears to be linked to certain birth defects, such as microcephaly, which is when a baby is born with an abnormally small head.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the virus is known to circulate in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific. There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine available.

The HSE has said that the woman found to have the virus here is older and is not at risk of becoming pregnant.

It also pointed out that the first case of a person becoming infected as a result of having sex with an infected person has been confirmed in the US by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The Department of Foreign Affairs has already issued travel advisories to pregnant women who may be travelling to affected countries, such as Brazil, Mexico and El Salvador.

It said that they should consider postponing their plans and advised them to contact their healthcare professional before travelling.

For more information on the Zika virus, click here