TABER, Alta.- Courtney Ohler and her husband, Jon, are expecting their first child this spring, but tough parental decisions have already started.
“This is the first big decision we’ve had to make as parents–as future parents–so we want to make the right one,” Courtney Ohler said.
The couple had to take a hard look at travel plans when news of the Zika virus started to circulate.
“We didn’t know a whole lot about it. We thought it maybe wasn’t a huge deal, but the more research we did, and after I got a chance to talk to my doctor, it really was like, there is no way we could risk it.”
READ MORE: Zika virus – New concerns about paralyzing disorder
The Ohlers had booked a vacation to Mexico, departing Feb. 13, but opted to change their plans.
“We actually just decided to take a weekend holiday instead to Phoenix,” Ohler said. “It won’t be our full holiday but we will be able to do that after.”
Watch below: Global’s ongoing coverage of the Zika virus
-
![]()
Is there a link between the Zika virus and Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)? -
![]()
Canadian Blood Services takes precautions amid Zika virus fears -
![]()
More warnings for pregnant women regarding the Zika virus -
![]()
U.S. confirms case of Zika virus caught through sexual transmission -
![]()
US confirms first case of Zika virus through sexual intercourse -
![]()
Edmonton biologist discusses Zika virus -
![]()
World Health Organization declares Zika virus an international emergency
Brenda Goodby at Marlin Travel says she’s had several inquires but only one trip cancellation so far due to the Zika virus.
“We do have a duty as travel agents to advise them of risks that have changed in the zone that they are travelling to,” she said. “We advise them to have an appointment with their doctor, to retain a doctor’s note. The second step is they have to contact their agent so we can assist them, thirdly they should contact their travel insurance company to see if there is any coverage from the insurer.”
READ MORE: What pregnant women need to know about Zika virus and travel
The Ohlers were lucky: they didn’t have cancellation insurance on their trip, but were able to get a full refund.
Goodby says most agencies are very understanding to expectant parents and are willing to work with them.
Ohler says no trip, with or without a refund, is worth risking her child’s health.
“There are so many decisions we are going to have to make,” she said. “I never thought we would have to make one this early, but it’s just a one-week holiday to Mexico and it’s our baby’s life, so we want to do whatever we can to protect it.”
READ MORE: U.S. officials confirm first case of Zika virus spread through sex
Comments