Published on November 10, 2017

Questions and Answers About Zika Virus Infection

What is Zika virus?

Zika is a mosquito-borne virus that is currently causing a large outbreak Central and South America, as well as the Carabean. In addition, the Florida Department of Health has identified areas in Miami where Zika is being spread by mosquitoes.

What are the symptoms of Zika virus?

Only about 1 in 5 people with Zika virus will get symptoms of illness; because of this, many people may not realize they have been infected. If a person does develop symptoms, they’re usually mild and include fever, rash, joint pain, or conjunctivitis.

How does it spread?

Zika virus is spread through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. Zika virus can also be sexually transmitted from a man to his sex partners. Sexual transmission of Zika virus from infected women to their sex partners has not been reported.

Who is most at risk for complications from Zika virus?

Pregnant women are most at risk for complications from Zika virus. This is because Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus; infection during pregnancy can cause microcephaly in babies. Microcephaly is a birth defect where a baby’s head is smaller than expected. This birth defect can result in seizures, intellectual disabilities, and developmental delays, among other problems.

Currently no vaccine or medication exists to prevent or treat Zika virus infection. CDC now recommends that all pregnant women in the United States be assessed for possible Zika virus exposure during each prenatal care visit.

How can pregnant women prevent Zika virus?

Out of an abundance of caution, the CDC recommends the following for pregnant women and women trying to become pregnant:

  • Pregnant women in any trimester should not travel to the areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. Pregnant women who do travel to one of these areas should talk to their healthcare provider first and strictly follow steps to avoid mosquito bites during their trip.
  • Pregnant women should discuss their male partner’s potential exposures to mosquitoes and history of the Zika symptoms described above with their healthcare provider.

CDC has issued guidance describing what couples can do to reduce the risk of Zika virus transmission. Visit the CDC website for the most up to date information on how to prevent Zika transmission to pregnant women or women who wish to become pregnant. Visit for more information.

What are some tips to avoid mosquito (bug) bites?


  • Use an Environmental Protection Agency Approved Insect Repellant. The list includes popular known brands such as OFF and Cutter, but there are many others. Visit the EPA website for a list of products with various types of active ingredients:
    • Follow product directions and reapply as directed.
    • If using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second.
    • Using an insect repellent is safe for pregnant women and nursing mothers.
  • Regularly empty containers outside your home that trap standing water such as planters, bird baths, and toys.


Submitted by Johnsie Hubble, RN, MPH, CIC | Chatham Hospital Infection Control