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CDC's Response to Zika


About Zika
Zika virus spreads to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus). People can also get Zika through sex with a man infected with Zika and it can be spread from a pregnant woman to her fetus. People can protect themselves from mosquito bites and getting Zika through sex. This fact sheet explains who’s most affected and why, symptoms and treatment, and how to protect against Zika.

How Zika Spreads
The mosquitoes that carry Zika are aggressive daytime biters, but they can also bite at night. A mosquito becomes infected when it bites a person already infected with Zika. That mosquito can then spread the virus by biting more people.

Zika virus can also spread:
  • During sex with a man infected with Zika.
  • From a pregnant woman to her fetus during pregnancy or around the time of birth.
  • Through blood transfusion (likely but not confirmed).

Zika Symptoms
Many people infected with Zika won’t have symptoms or will only have mild symptoms. The most common symptoms are fever, rash, joint pain, or red eyes. Other common symptoms include muscle pain and headache. Symptoms can last for several days to a week. People usually don’t get sick enough to go to the hospital, and they very rarely die of Zika. Once a person has been infected with Zika, they are likely to be protected from future infections.

Why Zika is Risky for Some People

How to Prevent Zika

  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

  • Take steps to control mosquitoes inside and outside your home.
    • Always follow the product label instructions. When used as directed, these insect repellents are proven safe and effective even for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
    • Do not use insect repellents on babies younger than 2 months old.
  • Prevent sexual transmission of Zika by using condoms or not having sex.

What to do if You Have Zika
There is no specific medicine to treat Zika.

Treat the symptoms:
  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.
  • Take medicine such as acetaminophen to reduce fever and pain.

To help prevent others from getting sick, strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during the first week of illness.

To learn more about Zika, visit the CDC's website.