What is Zika Virus?
Zika virus is a mosquito-borne viral infection that often causes mild symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. It is a major concern during pregnancy due to risks of birth defects.
Where is Zika Virus Found?
Zika virus is found in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It has been reported across parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Occasional outbreaks have also occurred in the southern United States. Travelers to these regions are at risk of infection where mosquito activity is high.
How Does the Zika Virus Spread?
Zika virus spreads primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, especially Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. It can also be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy, through sexual contact, blood transfusion, and laboratory exposure.
What Can I Do to Prevent Infection?
Zika spreads mainly through mosquito bites and sexual contact. Protect yourself by using EPA-registered repellent, wearing long sleeves, and keeping mosquitoes out with screens.
Travelers returning from risk areas should avoid mosquito bites for 3 weeks to prevent local spread.
Since Zika can pass through sex—even without symptoms—men should use condoms or abstain for at least 3 months, and women for at least 2 months after travel or infection.
Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Zika Virus Disease
Most people infected with Zika virus have mild illness or no symptoms at all. When present, symptoms typically begin 3–14 days after infection and last about a week. Common signs include:
- Fever
- Rash
- Headache
- Joint pain (arthralgia)
- Muscle pain (myalgia)
- Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
Severe disease is rare, but Zika infection during pregnancy can cause birth defects such as microcephaly and other congenital abnormalities. Neurologic complications, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, have also been reported.
Where Can I Find a Leishmania Vaccine Near Me?
Currently, there is no approved vaccine available to prevent Zika virus disease. Research is ongoing, but for now, the best protection is preventing mosquito bites and practicing safe sex after travel to affected areas.
Other Travel Vaccines to Consider
If you’re traveling internationally, certain destinations may require additional protection beyond routine vaccines. Depending on your itinerary, other recommended immunizations can include Chikungunya, Cholera, Japanese Encephalitis, Polio, Rabies, Typhoid Fever, Yellow Fever, and Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE). These vaccines help protect against mosquito-borne, food- and water-related, and environment-specific diseases that travelers may encounter. Consulting with a travel health professional ensures you receive tailored advice for your destination.