Pregnant Meghan Markle won't change royal tour travel plans despite Zika warning

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announced they are expecting their first child together, just hours after they touched down in Sydney for their 16-day royal tour of Australia.

Their itinerary for the visit includes engagements in Fiji and Tonga, countries which have been classified as having a moderate risk of Zika virus transmission.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry will welcome their first baby next spring. (Photo: Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage)
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry will welcome their first baby next spring. (Photo: Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage)

The disease is mainly spread by mosquitoes, and for most people, it is a very mild infection and isn’t harmful.

However, it may be more serious for pregnant women, as there’s evidence it causes birth defects — in particular, microcephaly, a condition in which infants have abnormally small heads.

But a spokesman for Kensington Palace has said that there will be no change to Meghan and Harry’s program in Fiji and Tonga next week, despite Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice that pregnant women should not travel to the region.

According to the spokesman, they have sought medical advice and have decided to go ahead with their plans.

The royal aide added that Meghan has had her 12-week scan and is in “good health.”

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