CDC Website: Zika Virus


Outbreaks of Zika have occurred in areas of Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas. Because the Aedes species mosquitoes that spread Zika virus are found throughout the world, it is likely that outbreaks will spread to new countries. In December 2015, Puerto Rico reported its first confirmed Zika virus case. Locally transmitted Zika has not been reported elsewhere in the United States, but cases of Zika have been reported in returning travelers.

There is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat Zika. Travelers can protect themselves from this disease by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites. When traveling to countries where Zika virus (see map) or other viruses spread by mosquitoes have been reported, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and stay in places with air conditioning or that use window and door screens.

Additional Resources:
CDC: ZIKA Travel Health Notices
CDC: ZIKA Prevention
CDC: ZIKA Transmission

Zika testing recommendations have changed for pregnant women. Testing for Zika infection is becoming more difficult, making it harder to advise pregnant women about the chances their child might have a birth defect. Read more at: