Qld scientists aim for Zika breakthrough

Three Queensland scientists are part of an international collaboration aiming to develop a test for the Zika virus that provides results in as little as 15 minutes.

Dr Joanne Macdonald, a senior lecturer in molecular engineering at the University of the Sunshine Coast, is one of 14 Australian researchers to recently take part in a research mission to Brazil and Colombia, where connections were made with local researchers working to combat the disease.

Along with two scientists from the University of Queensland, she has begun work to develop a tool to quickly detect and track Zika.

"There is currently a three-week delay in testing in Rio De Janeiro, with priority given to pregnant women," Dr Macdonald told AAP.

Testing involves samples being sent away to labs, but Dr Macdonald hopes to develop it to the point where tests could be done in a doctor's clinic and results be available within 15 minutes.

The World Health Organisation declared the Zika outbreak an international health emergency in February.

The outbreak is affecting large parts of Latin America and the Caribbean, with Brazil the hardest hit so far.

US health officials say Zika infections in pregnant women can cause microcephaly, a birth defect that can lead to severe developmental problems, among other ailments.

There is no vaccine for Zika, but quicker testing for the virus will be essential if a vaccine can be developed.

Rio health authorities are preparing for a huge influx of tourists for the Olympic Games in August.

"Ultimately the best protection for Zika, or other diseases like dengue and chikungunya, is to not get infected," Dr Macdonald said.

While there are simple protective measures people can take, such as using mosquito repellent on both their skin and clothes, Dr Macdonald warns the risks are too great for soon-to-be parents.

"According to the latest accounts, there are babies born blind or deaf, with twisted feet, stuffed joints, or with tremors or convulsions", she said.