Zika is a virus that is spread mostly by mosquitoes. A pregnant mother can pass it to her baby during pregnancy or around the time of birth. It can spread through sexual contact. There have also been reports that the virus has spread through blood transfusions. There have been outbreaks of Zika virus in the United States, Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, parts of the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

Most people who get the virus do not get sick. One in five people do get symptoms, which can include a fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (pinkeye). Symptoms are usually mild, and start 2 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

A blood test can tell whether you have the infection. There are no vaccines or medicines to treat it. Drinking lots of fluids, resting, and taking acetaminophen might help.

Zika can cause microcephaly (a serious birth defect of the brain) and other problems in babies whose mothers were infected while pregnant. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that pregnant women do not travel to areas where there is a Zika virus outbreak. If you do decide to travel, first talk to your doctor. You should also be careful to prevent mosquito bites:

• Use insect repellent
• Wear clothes that cover your arms, legs, and feet
• Stay in places that have air conditioning or that use window and door screens

How Zika is transmitted

Zika can be transmitted

• Through mosquito bites
• From a pregnant woman to her fetus
• Through sex
• Through blood transfusion (very likely but not confirmed)

Zika symptoms

Many people infected with Zika virus won’t have symptoms or will only have mild symptoms. The most common symptoms of Zika are

• Fever
• Rash
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Red eyes
• Muscle pain

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

Zika infection during pregnancy can cause a birth defect of the brain called microcephaly and other severe brain defects. It is also linked to other problems, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and other birth defects. There have also been increased reports of Guillain-Barré syndrome, an uncommon sickness of the nervous system, in areas affected by Zika.

How to prevent Zika

There is no vaccine to prevent Zika. The best way to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes is to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites.

Clothing

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Treat your clothing and gear with permethrin or buy pre-treated items.

Insect repellent

• Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents with one of the following active ingredients:
  DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone. 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 products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on children younger than 3 years old.

At Home

• Stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.
• Take steps to control mosquitoes inside and outside your home.
• Mosquito netting can be used to cover babies younger than 2 months old in carriers, strollers, or cribs.
• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if air conditioned or screened rooms are not available or if sleeping outdoors.

Sexual transmission

• Prevent sexual transmission of Zika by using condoms or not having sex.

How Zika is diagnosed

• Diagnosis of Zika is based on a person’s recent travel history, symptoms, and test results.
• A blood or urine test can confirm a Zika infection.
• Symptoms of Zika are similar to other illnesses spread through mosquito bites, like dengue and chikungunya.
• Your doctor or other healthcare provider may order tests to look for several types of infections.

What to do if you have Zika

There is no specific medicine or vaccine for Zika virus. Treat the symptoms:

• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Take medicine such as acetaminophen to reduce fever and pain.
• Do not take aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking additional medication.

History of Zika

Zika virus was first discovered in 1947 and is named after the Zika Forest in Uganda. In 1952, the first human cases of Zika were detected and since then, outbreaks of Zika have been reported in tropical Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Zika outbreaks have probably occurred in many locations. Before 2007, at least 14 cases of Zika had been documented, although other cases were likely to have occurred and were not reported. Because the symptoms of Zika are similar to those of many other diseases, many cases may not have been recognized.

Zika virus infection is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. Zika virus can also be spread from a pregnant mother to her child and through sexual contact with an affected partner. Cases of Zika virus transmission via blood transfusion have also been reported. Zika virus outbreaks are currently occurring in many countries. The illness associated with Zika virus infection is usually mild, with symptoms lasting for several days to a week. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). However, research has suggested an association between Zika virus infection and Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) in a small percentage of cases.

Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause adverse pregnancy outcomes, including microcephaly and other serious brain defects. The full range of health problems associated with Zika virus infection during pregnancy is currently being studied. No vaccine currently exists to prevent Zika virus infection, but there are still ways to protect oneself. The CDC recommends that pregnant women consider postponing travel to Zika-affected areas. People living in or traveling to areas where Zika virus is found should take steps to prevent mosquito bites. Those who have traveled to Zika-affected areas may wish to take steps to prevent sexual transmission of the Zika virus.

Zika primarily spreads through infected mosquito bites. You can also get Zika through sex.

Many areas in the United States have the type of mosquitoes that can spread Zika virus. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Zika can also be passed through sex from a person who has Zika to his or her sex partners, even if the person doesn’t have symptoms.

If you are pregnant and must travel to an area with risk of Zika, take steps to protect yourself and your pregnancy.

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent. It works and is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Stay in places with air conditioning or window and door screens.
• Remove standing water around your home.

Zika is linked to birth defects.

Zika infection during pregnancy can cause a serious birth defect called microcephaly that is a sign of incomplete brain development. Doctors have also found other problems in pregnancies and among fetuses and infants infected with Zika before birth. If you are pregnant and have a partner who lives in or has traveled to an area with a Zika outbreak or with current or past spread of Zika, use condoms or do not have sex during your pregnancy. To be effective, condoms should be used from start to finish, every time during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

Pregnant women should not travel to areas with Zika outbreaks.

If you must travel to one of these areas, talk to your healthcare provider first and strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites and sexual transmission during your trip. Before travel to areas with current or past spread of Zika, pregnant women and couples considering pregnancy should talk with their doctors or other healthcare providers and carefully consider risks and possible consequences of travel.

Returning travelers infected with Zika can spread the virus through mosquito bites and sex.

Even if they do not feel sick, travelers returning from an area with risk of Zika should take steps to prevent mosquito bites for 3 weeks so they do not spread Zika to uninfected mosquitoes. If a mosquito bites a person while he or she has Zika virus in his or her blood, the mosquito can become infected and then infect other people.

Couples with a partner who lives in or has traveled to an area with a Zika outbreak or areas with current or past spread of Zika, especially those who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, should take steps to protect themselves during sex. Zika can stay in semen for months after infection (even without symptoms), and can be spread to partners during that time.

What We Know

• Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus). These mosquitoes bite during the day and night.
• Prevent Zika by avoiding mosquito bites.
• Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects.
• Zika can be passed through sex from a person who has Zika to his or her sex partners. Condoms can reduce the chance of getting Zika from sex. Condoms include male and female condoms.
• No vaccine is currently available.
• Since 2018, no local mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission has been reported in the continental United States.
• The mosquitoes that can spread Zika are found throughout the United States.

Through mosquito bites

Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus). These are the same mosquitoes that spread dengue and chikungunya viruses.

• These mosquitoes typically lay eggs in or near standing water in things like buckets, bowls, animal dishes, flower pots, and vases. They prefer to bite people, and live indoors and outdoors near people.
  • Mosquitoes that spread chikungunya, dengue, and Zika bite during the day and night.
• A mosquito gets infected with a virus when it bites an infected person during the period of time when the virus can be found in the person’s blood, typically only through the first week of infection.
• Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to other people through bites.

From mother to child

• A pregnant woman can pass Zika virus to her fetus during pregnancy. Zika is a cause of microcephaly and other severe fetal brain defects. We are studying the full range of other potential health problems that Zika virus infection during pregnancy may cause.
• A pregnant woman already infected with Zika virus can pass the virus to her fetus during the pregnancy or around the time of birth.
• Zika virus has been found in breast milk. Possible Zika virus infections have been identified in breastfeeding babies, but Zika virus transmission through breast milk has not been confirmed. Additionally, we do not yet know the long-term effects of Zika virus on young infants infected after birth. Because current evidence suggests that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the risk of Zika virus spreading through breast milk, CDC continues to encourage mothers to breastfeed, even if they were infected or lived in or traveled to an area with risk of Zika. CDC continues to study Zika virus and the ways it can spread and will update recommendations as new information becomes available.

Through sex

• Zika can be passed through sex from a person who has Zika to his or her partners. Zika can be passed through sex, even if the infected person does not have symptoms at the time. Learn how to protect yourself during sex.
  • It can be passed from a person with Zika before their symptoms start, while they have symptoms, and after their symptoms end.
  • Though not well documented, the virus may also be passed by a person who carries the virus but never develops symptoms.
• Studies are underway to find out how long Zika stays in the semen and vaginal fluids of people who have Zika, and how long it can be passed to sex partners. We know that Zika can remain in semen longer than in other body fluids, including vaginal fluids, urine, and blood.

Through blood transfusion

• To date, there have not been any confirmed blood transfusion transmission cases in the United States.
• There have been multiple reports of possible blood transfusion transmission cases in Brazil.
• During the French Polynesian outbreak, 2.8% of blood donors tested positive for Zika and in previous outbreaks, the virus has been found in blood donors.

Through laboratory and healthcare setting exposure

• There are reports of laboratory acquired Zika virus infections, although the route of transmission was not clearly established in all cases.
• To date, no cases of Zika virus transmission in healthcare settings have been identified in the United States. Recommendations are available for healthcare providers to help prevent exposure to Zika virus in healthcare settings.

Risks

• Anyone who lives in or travels to an area with risk of Zika and has not already been infected with Zika virus can get it from mosquito bites. Once a person has been infected, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections.

Zika Can Be Passed Through Sex

• Zika can be passed through sex from a person with Zika to his or her partners.
  • Sex includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex and the sharing of sex toys.
  • Zika can be passed through sex even in a committed relationship.
  • The timeframes that men and women can pass Zika through sex are different because Zika virus can stay in semen longer than in other body fluids.

Infected People Can Pass Zika Through Sex Even When They Don’t Have Symptoms

• Many people infected with Zika virus won’t have symptoms or will only have mild symptoms, and they may not know they have been infected.
• Zika can also be passed from a person before their symptoms start, while they have symptoms, and after their symptoms end.

How to Protect Yourself During Sex

• Condoms can reduce the chance of getting Zika from sex.
  • Condoms include male and female condoms.
  • To be effective, condoms should be used from start to finish, every time during vaginal, anal, and oral sex and the sharing of sex toys
  • Dental dams may also be used for certain types of oral sex (mouth to vagina or mouth to anus).
• Not sharing sex toys can also reduce the risk of spreading Zika to sex partners.
• Not having sex eliminates the risk of getting Zika from sex.

Recommendations for Where You Travel or Live

Pregnant Couples

Both partners need to take precautions!

Traveling to an area with a Zika outbreak or to an area with current or past Zika transmission

• Pregnant women should NOT travel to areas with Zika outbreaks (as indicated by red areas on Zika map). If a pregnant woman must travel to one of these areas, she should talk to her healthcare provider first. Learn more about protecting your pregnancy.
• Before traveling to areas with current or past spread of Zika (as indicated by purple areas on Zika map), pregnant women should discuss their travel plans with a doctor. In deciding whether to travel, they should consider the destination, reasons for traveling, and ability to prevent mosquito bites.
• If a pregnant woman or her partner travel to an area with current or past spread of Zika (as indicated by purple areas on Zika map), the couple should use condoms from start to finish every time they have sex or not have sex for the entire pregnancy, even if the traveler does not have symptoms of Zika or feel sick.

Living in an area with risk of Zika

• Pregnant couples should use condoms from start to finish every time they have sex, or they should not have sex for the entire pregnancy.

Couples Interested in Pregnancy

• Women and their partners who are trying to or are interested in becoming pregnant need to protect themselves from Zika infection.
• Couples who are trying to or interested in becoming pregnant should consider waiting to get pregnant if you travel to or live in an area with risk of Zika and discuss their plans for pregnancy with a healthcare provider to determine their risk and the options available

Couples Who Are Not Pregnant and Not Trying to Become Pregnant

• Anyone concerned about getting or passing Zika through sex should use condoms or not have sex, especially because nearly half of all pregnancies (45%) in the United States are unintended.
• If either partner develops symptoms of Zika or has concerns, they should talk to a healthcare provider.

Traveling to an area with risk of Zika

Men and women traveling in an area with risk of Zika should consider using condoms every time they have sex or not have sex while traveling.

Living in an area with risk of Zika

Couples living in an area with risk of Zika can use condoms or not have sex if they are concerned with passing or getting Zika through sex.

Decisions about having sex and using condoms depend on each person’s understanding of the risks and benefits, including

• The mild nature of the illness for many people
• Their possible exposure to mosquitoes while in an area with risk of Zika
• Their plans for pregnancy (if appropriate) and access to birth control
• Their access to condoms
• Their desire for intimacy, including willingness to use condoms or not have sex
• Their ability to use condoms or not have sex

If either partner develops symptoms of Zika or has concerns, they should talk to a healthcare provider.

What we know

• On July 6, 2018, FDA issued revised guidance recommending that blood centers in all states and U.S. territories screen donated whole blood and blood components with a blood screening nucleic acid test licensed for use by FDA. Screening could be performed by pooling samples from multiple donations but with triggering to individual donation testing when there is increased risk for local, mosquito-borne transmission of Zika virus. Alternatively, an FDA-approved pathogen-reduction device may be used for plasma and apheresis platelet donations.
• Most people infected with the Zika virus don’t show any symptoms, blood donors may not know they have been infected.
• To date, there have been no confirmed transfusion-transmission cases of Zika virus in the United States. However, cases of Zika virus transmission through platelet transfusions have been documented in Brazil.

Zika Virus Blood Screening

• Blood donor screening on the basis of a questionnaire, without a laboratory test, is insufficient for identifying Zika-infected blood donors in areas with active mosquito-borne transmission of Zika virus due to the high rate of asymptomatic infection.
• FDA has licensed two blood donor screening tests to detect Zika virus RNA in human plasma: the cobas Zika Test performed on the cobas 6800/8800 (Roche Molecular Systems, Inc) on October 5, 2017 and the Procleix Zika Virus Assay (Grifols Diagnostic Solutions, Inc.) on July 5, 2018.
• Blood donations that test positive for Zika virus are removed from the blood supply.

What we know

• Zika virus can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus.
• Infection during pregnancy can cause a birth defect called microcephaly and other severe fetal brain defects
• Zika primarily spreads through infected mosquitoes. You can also get Zika through sex without a condom with someone infected by Zika, even if that person does not show symptoms of Zika.
• There is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat Zika.

What we do not know

• How likely it is that Zika infection will affect your pregnancy.
• If your baby will have birth defects if you are infected while pregnant.
• The full range of health effects that Zika virus infection during pregnancy might lead to.

What we know

There have not been any reports of pets becoming sick with Zika.

• Zika spreads to people primarily by the bite of an infected mosquito.
• The only animals that we know can get sick from Zika are nonhuman primates (for example, apes and monkeys), which may have mild illness with fever when infected.
• There have not been any reports of pets or other types of animals becoming sick with Zika.
• Current studies suggest that other animals do not contribute to the spread of Zika.
• There is no evidence that Zika spreads to people from direct contact with animals (for example, touching, licking, coughing, sneezing).
• In tropical Africa and South America, mosquitoes may get infected by feeding on nonhuman primates with Zika. Those infected mosquitoes may then bite and infect a person, but this is thought to be rare.
• More research is needed to better understand Zika in animals.

Zika in animals

Nonhuman primates (for example, apes and monkeys) can become infected with Zika. Zika was first discovered in a monkey with a mild fever in the Zika Forest of Uganda in the 1940s. We do not know how often apes and monkeys are infected with Zika. A few studies suggest that apes and monkeys infected with Zika may have a fever or mild symptoms. More research is needed to better understand the role apes and monkeys play in spreading Zika to people.

Limited studies show that apes and monkeys infected with Zika during pregnancy can develop severe fetal brain defects.

One study done in Indonesia in the late 1970s showed that horses, cows, carabaos (water buffaloes), goats, ducks, and bats could become infected with Zika, but there is no evidence that they get sick or can spread Zika to people. There have not been any reports of pets or other types of animals becoming sick with Zika.

Risk to monkeys and apes in the United States

The risk of apes and monkeys in the United States becoming infected with Zika virus is low. All apes and monkeys imported into the United States undergo a mandatory 31-day quarantine period on arrival.

• The apes and monkeys are held indoors or in screened enclosures where it is unlikely they will have contact with mosquitoes.
• Any ape or monkey that may have entered quarantine while infected with Zika virus is not likely to pass it to others.
• If infected, apes and monkeys may be able to spread Zika for a limited time. This could occur if an uninfected mosquito bites a recently infected animal during the period of time when the virus is found in the ape or monkey’s blood, typically during the first week of infection. All imported apes and monkeys should be free of Zika by the end of the quarantine period and pose no risk of infecting local mosquitoes.

Bringing pets or other animals into the United States

Some animals, including apes and monkeys, are not allowed to be imported as pets under any circumstances. Each state and US territory has its own rules for pet ownership. Find more information about animal importation on CDC’s Importation website.

Many people infected with Zika virus won’t have symptoms or will only have mild symptoms. The most common symptoms of Zika are

• Fever
• Rash
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
• Muscle pain

How long symptoms last

Zika is usually mild with symptoms lasting 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. For this reason, many people might not realize they have been infected. Symptoms of Zika are similar to other viruses spread through mosquito bites, like dengue and chikungunya.

How soon you should be tested

Zika virus usually remains in the blood of an infected person for about a week. See your doctor or other healthcare provider if you develop symptoms and you live in or have recently traveled to an area with risk of Zika. Your doctor or other healthcare provider may order blood or urine tests to help determine if you have Zika. Once a person has been infected, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections.

When to see a doctor or healthcare provider

See your doctor or other healthcare provider if you have the symptoms described above and have visited an area with risk of Zika. This is especially important if you are pregnant. Be sure to tell your doctor or other healthcare provider where you traveled.

What we know

• Zika virus disease is generally mild, and severe disease requiring hospitalization and deaths are uncommon.
• Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects and is associated with other pregnancy problems.
• Rarely, Zika may cause Guillain-Barré syndrome, an uncommon sickness of the nervous system in which a person’s own immune system damages the nerve cells, causing muscle weakness, and sometimes, paralysis.
• Very rarely, Zika may cause severe disease affecting the brain, causing swelling of the brain or spinal cord or a blood disorder which can result in bleeding, bruising or slow blood clotting.

Microcephaly & Other Birth Defects

Zika infection during pregnancy can cause a birth defect called microcephaly, as well as other severe fetal brain defects.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

CDC is investigating the link between Zika virus infection and GBS, an uncommon sickness of the nervous system.

Zika and Microcephaly

Microcephaly is a birth defect in which a baby’s head is smaller than expected when compared to babies of the same sex and age. Babies with microcephaly often have smaller brains that might not have developed properly.

Zika virus infection during pregnancy is a cause of microcephaly. During pregnancy, a baby’s head grows because the baby’s brain grows. Microcephaly can occur because a baby’s brain has not developed properly during pregnancy or has stopped growing after birth.

Congenital Zika Syndrome

Congenital Zika syndrome is a unique pattern of birth defects and disabilities found among fetuses and babies infected with Zika virus during pregnancy. Although many of the features seen as part of congenital Zika syndrome can be caused by other infections during pregnancy, there is often a pattern of the features below that has been termed congenital Zika syndrome:

• Severe microcephaly where the skull has partially collapsed
• Decreased brain tissue with a specific pattern of brain damage
• Damage (i.e., scarring, pigment changes) to the back of the eye
• Joints with limited range of motion, such as clubfoot
• Too much muscle tone restricting body movement soon after birth

Babies who were infected with Zika before birth may have damage to their eyes and/or the part of their brain that is responsible for vision, which may affect their visual development. Both babies with and without microcephaly can have eye problems. If your baby was born with congenital Zika infection, he or she should receive the recommended screenings and tests to check for eye and other health problems, even if your baby appears healthy.

A recent study in Brazil found that at 19-24 months, babies with congenital Zika virus infection exhibited challenges with sitting independently, feeding, and sleeping. The babies also experienced seizures and hearing and vision problems, such as not responding to the sound of a rattle and not being able to follow a moving object with their eyes. It is important to note that babies affected by Zika virus will continue to require specialized care from many types of healthcare providers and caregivers as they age.

Not all babies born with congenital Zika infection will have all of these problems. Some infants with congenital Zika virus infection who do not have microcephaly at birth may later experience slowed head growth and develop postnatal microcephaly.

Recognizing that Zika is a cause of certain birth defects does not mean that every pregnant woman infected with Zika will have a baby with a birth defect. It means that infection with Zika during pregnancy increases the chances for these problems. Scientists continue to study how Zika virus affects mothers and their children to better understand the full range of potential health problems that Zika virus infection during pregnancy may cause.

Future Pregnancies

Based on the available evidence, we think that Zika virus infection in a woman who is not pregnant would not pose a risk for birth defects in future pregnancies after the virus has cleared from her blood. From what we know about similar infections, once a person has been infected with Zika virus, he or she is likely to be protected from a future Zika infection.

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an uncommon sickness of the nervous system in which a person’s own immune system damages the nerve cells, causing muscle weakness, and sometimes, paralysis.

• Several countries that have experienced Zika outbreaks recently have reported increases in people who have Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).
• Current CDC research suggests that GBS is strongly associated with Zika; however, only a small proportion of people with recent Zika virus infection get GBS.

Symptoms of GBS

GBS symptoms include weakness of the arms and legs and, in severe cases, can affect the muscles that control breathing.

These symptoms can last a few weeks or several months. Most people fully recover from GBS, though some people have permanent damage. Very few people die from GBS.

Causes of GBS

Researchers do not fully understand what causes GBS. Most people with GBS report an infection before they have GBS symptoms. Rarely, vaccination has also been associated with the onset of GBS (for example, the 1976 Swine influenza vaccine).

GBS is rare

An estimated 3,000 to 6,000 people, or 1-2 cases for every 100,000 people, develop GBS each year in the US. Most cases of GBS tend to occur for no known reason, and true “clusters” of cases of GBS are very unusual.

What to do if you are concerned

If you want to know more about the number of GBS cases in a certain area, contact the state or local health department in the state where the cases happen. CDC collaborates with state and local health departments to investigate reports of possibly unusually large numbers or “clusters” of GBS cases.

How Zika is diagnosed

• To diagnose Zika, a doctor or other healthcare provider will ask about any recent travel and any signs and symptoms.
• They may order blood or urine tests to help determine if you have Zika.

Remember to ask for your Zika test results even if you are feeling better.

Only some people need Zika testing

Following the Zika virus outbreaks in 2016, the number of Zika cases reported from most parts of the world declined and is now very low. Therefore, very few people need Zika testing.

Testing is recommended if you have symptoms of Zika and have traveled to a country with a current Zika outbreak (red areas). Note: There are no countries or U.S. territories currently reporting an outbreak of Zika.

• Testing should take place as soon as possible, while you still have symptoms.
• Testing may include a molecular test which looks for presence of the virus in the body or serological testing which looks for antibodies your body makes to fight infection.
• If you have questions talk to your healthcare provider.

Testing is recommended if you are a pregnant woman with symptoms of Zika and have traveled to a an area with risk of Zika outside of the U.S. and its territories.

• Testing should take place as soon as possible, while you still have symptoms.
• Testing will be done using a molecular test which looks for presence of the virus in the body.
• Serological testing is not recommended since antibodies against Zika persist for years and cross-react with other similar viruses, including dengue. For this reason, a positive lab result often cannot definitively tell you if you have a current or past infection or whether it is a Zika or dengue infection.
• If you have questions talk to your healthcare provider.

Testing is no longer routinely recommended if you are a pregnant woman with no symptoms of Zika, but may be considered if you traveled to an area with risk of Zika.

• Upon your return from travel, testing should take place as soon as possible.
• Testing will be done using a molecular test which looks for presence of the virus in the body.
• Serological testing is not recommended since antibodies against Zika persist for years and cross-react with other similar viruses, including dengue. For this reason, a positive lab result often cannot definitively tell you if you have a current or past infection or whether it is a Zika or dengue infection.
• If you have questions talk to your healthcare provider.

You should be tested for Zika if you are pregnant, traveled to an area with risk of Zika and your doctor sees Zika-associated abnormalities on an ultrasound or you deliver a baby with birth defects that may be related to Zika.

• Testing may include a molecular test which looks for presence of the virus in the body or serological testing which looks for antibodies your body makes to fight infection.
• If you have questions talk to your healthcare provider.

Preconception Zika testing is NOT recommended.

If you have tested positive for Zika

• If you are pregnant, you can pass Zika to your fetus. For information for pregnant women, please see Zika and Pregnancy.
• You can pass Zika to your sex partner(s). Learn how you can prevent passing Zika to your partner.
• You can pass Zika to mosquitoes, which can bite you, get infected with Zika virus, and spread the virus to other people. Learn how you can prevent mosquito bites.

More information is available for specific groups.

• Pregnant women
• Women considering pregnancy
• Women not considering pregnancy
• Men
• Parents

Sexual transmission and testing

• A blood or urine test can help determine if you have Zika from sexual transmission; however, testing blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or urine is not recommended to determine how likely a person is to pass Zika virus through sex.

If you think you may have or had Zika

• Treat the symptoms
• Protect others from getting sick

There is no specific medicine or vaccine for Zika virus.

• Treat the symptoms.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Take medicine such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) to reduce fever and pain.
• Do not take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) until dengue can be ruled out to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking additional medication.

If you think you may have or had Zika

Tell your doctor or healthcare provider and take steps to protect others.

If you are caring for a person with Zika

Take steps to protect yourself from exposure to the person’s blood and body fluids (urine, stool, vomit). If you are pregnant, you can care for someone with Zika if you follow these steps.

• Do not touch blood or body fluids or surfaces with these fluids on them with exposed skin.
• Wash hands with soap and water immediately after providing care.
• Immediately remove and wash clothes if they get blood or body fluids on them. Use laundry detergent and water temperature specified on the garment label. Using bleach is not necessary.
• Clean the sick person’s environment daily using household cleaners according to label instructions.
• Immediately clean surfaces that have blood or other body fluids on them using household cleaners and disinfectants according to label instructions.

If you visit a family member or friend with Zika in a hospital, you should avoid contact with the person’s blood and body fluids and surfaces with these fluids on them. Helping the person sit up or walk should not expose you. Make sure to wash your hands before and after touching the person.

Following these tips will help to protect you, your partner, your family, your friends, and your community from Zika. The more steps you take, the more protected you are.

If you are caring for a family member or friend with Zika, take steps to protect yourself from exposure to the person’s blood and body fluids.

Prevent mosquito bites

• Zika virus is spread to people mainly through the bite of an infected mosquito.
• Mosquitoes that spread Zika and other viruses bite during the day and night.
• The best way to prevent Zika is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
• Everyone, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, should take steps to prevent mosquito bites.
• When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

What you can do

• Check CDC’s travel recommendations for areas with risk of Zika.
• Take steps to prevent mosquito bites.
• Take steps to control mosquitoes inside and outside your home.

Plan for travel

• Outbreaks of Zika have occurred in different countries and territories.
• Zika virus will continue to infect people. It is difficult to know when and where Zika virus will occur in the future.

What you can do

• Check CDC’s travel recommendations for areas with risk of Zika.
• Plan for travel (both before AND after your trip)
• Protect yourself during sex

Protect yourself during sex

• Zika can be passed through sex from a person who has Zika to his or her sex partners.
• We know that Zika can remain in semen longer than in other body fluids, including vaginal fluids, urine, and blood.

What you can do

• Not having sex can eliminate the risk of getting Zika from sex.
• Condoms can reduce the chance of getting Zika from sex.
  • Condoms include male and female condoms.
  • To be effective, condoms should be used from start to finish, every time during vaginal, anal, and oral sex and the sharing of sex toys.
  • Dental dams (latex or polyurethane sheets) may also be used for certain types of oral sex (mouth to vagina or mouth to anus).

If you have Zika, protect others

• During the first week of infection, Zika virus can be found in the blood and passed from an infected person to another mosquito through mosquito bites. An infected mosquito can then spread the virus to other people.
• Zika can be passed through sex from a person who has Zika to his or her partners. Sex includes vaginal, anal and oral sex, and the sharing of sex toys.

What you can do

• Take steps to prevent mosquito bites.
• Protect yourself during sex if your partner lives in or has traveled to an area with risk of Zika.

Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites

Use Insect Repellent

Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents with one of the active ingredients below. When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

• DEET
• Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the US)
• IR3535
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
• Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone

Find the right insect repellent for you by using EPA’s search tool.

Tips for babies and children

• Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs.
• Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
• When using insect repellent on your child:
  • Always follow label instructions.
  • Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children under 3 years old.
  • Do not apply insect repellent to a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin.
    • Adults: Spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face.

Tips for Everyone

• Always follow the product label instructions.
• Reapply insect repellent as directed.
  • Do not spray repellent on the skin under clothing.
  • If you are also using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second.

Natural insect repellents (repellents not registered with EPA)

• We do not know the effectiveness of non-EPA registered insect repellents, including some natural repellents.
• To protect yourself against diseases spread by mosquitoes, CDC and EPA recommend using an EPA-registered insect repellent.
• Choosing an EPA-registered repellent ensures the EPA has evaluated the product for effectiveness.

Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants

Treat clothing and gear

• Use permethrin to treat clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents) or buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear.
  • Permethrin is an insecticide that kills or repels mosquitoes.
  • Permethrin-treated clothing provides protection after multiple washings.
  • Read product information to find out how long the protection will last.

  If treating items yourself, follow the product instructions.

• Do not use permethrin products directly on skin.

Take steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors

• Use screens on windows and doors. Repair holes in screens to keep mosquitoes outdoors.
• Use air conditioning, if available.
• Stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in or near water.
  • Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out items that hold water, such as tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpots, or trash containers.
  • Check indoors and outdoors.

Prevent mosquito bites when traveling overseas

• Choose a hotel or lodging with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors.
• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are outside or in a room that does not have screens.
  • Buy a bed net at your local outdoor store or online before traveling overseas.
  • Choose a WHOPES-approved bed net: compact, white, rectangular, with 156 holes per square inch, and long enough to tuck under the mattress.
  • Permethrin-treated bed nets provide more protection than untreated nets.
    • Do not wash bed nets or expose them to sunlight. This will break down the insecticide more quickly.

Control mosquitoes outside your home

Remove standing water where mosquitoes could lay eggs

• Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out any items that hold water like tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, or trash containers. Mosquitoes lay eggs near water.
• Tightly cover water storage containers (buckets, cisterns, rain barrels) so that mosquitoes cannot get inside to lay eggs.
• For containers without lids, use wire mesh with holes smaller than an adult mosquito.
• Use larvicides to treat large containers of water that will not be used for drinking and cannot be covered or dumped out.
• If you have a septic tank, repair cracks or gaps. Cover open vent or plumbing pipes. Use wire mesh with holes smaller than an adult mosquito.

Kill mosquitoes outside your home

• Use an outdoor insect spray made to kill mosquitoes in areas where they rest.
• Mosquitoes rest in dark, humid areas like under patio furniture, or under the carport or garage. When using insecticides, always follow label instructions.

Control mosquitoes inside your home

Keep mosquitoes out

• Install or repair and use window and door screens. Do not leave doors propped open.
• Use air conditioning when possible.

Kill mosquitoes inside your home

• Kill mosquitoes inside your home. Use an indoor insect fogger or indoor insect spray to kill mosquitoes and treat areas where they rest. These products work immediately, and may need to be reapplied. When using insecticides, always follow label directions. Only using insecticide will not keep your home free of mosquitoes.
• Mosquitoes rest in dark, humid places like under the sink, in closets, under furniture, or in the laundry room.

Did You Know?

• Zika virus (or Zika) is still a risk in many parts of the world.
• Zika is spread primarily through mosquito bites, but it can also spread through sex.
• A pregnant woman can pass Zika to her fetus, which can cause serious birth defects.
• Many people infected with Zika won’t have symptoms or will only have mild symptoms. For this reason, if you travel to an area with risk of Zika, you can be infected with Zika and not know it.
• You can pass Zika to others through sex, even months after infection. This means Zika is a concern not only for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant but also for their partners.

What Men Can Do to Stop the Spread of Zika During and After Travel

• If you have a pregnant partner, she should not travel to an area with a Zika outbreak (as indicated by red areas on the Zika map). See more information on precautions pregnant women should take.
• If you have a pregnant partner and travel to an area with a Zika outbreak (as indicated by red areas on the Zika map) or to an area with current or past spread of Zika (as indicated by purple areas on the Zika map), use condoms from start to finish every time you have sex or do not have sex for the entire pregnancy. Follow these recommendations even if you do not feel sick.
• If you and your partner are planning a pregnancy, talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider before traveling to areas with risk of Zika.
• Because you can be infected and spread Zika to others without knowing it, it is important to take precautions even if you don’t have symptoms.
• There is no specific medicine or vaccine for Zika. But there are steps you can take to prevent Zika.

If You Travel to an Area with Risk of Zika

There are two key steps you should take to prevent Zika.

1. Prevent Mosquito Bites During Travel and for 3 weeks After Your Return

Even if you don’t have symptoms

• Preventing mosquito bites while traveling will lower your chances of getting Zika from infected mosquitoes.
• Preventing mosquito bites after you return will lower your chances of spreading Zika to mosquitoes back home. Local mosquitoes can get infected from biting you, then bite other people and spread Zika to them.

2. Use Condoms (or Don’t Have Sex) During and After Travel

This will prevent spreading Zika through sex.

The period of time during which you should use condoms after travel depends on your situation:

• Men with Pregnant Partners
• Men Planning Pregnancy with Their Partners
• Men Who Are Not Concerned About Pregnancy

Men with Pregnant Partners

 Use condoms or don’t have sex for the entire pregnancy

• After travel to an area with risk of Zika, use condoms every time you have sex for the entire pregnancy. To be effective, condoms should be used from start to finish, every time during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
• Not having sex eliminates the risk of sexually transmitting Zika to your partner. It is important to help protect your partner throughout her pregnancy because:
  • You may have been infected with Zika and not know it, since it often does not cause symptoms.
  • There is no available test to know if you have Zika in your semen or how likely you are to pass Zika through sex. Zika can stay in your semen and may be passed to your partner (and the fetus) for months after infection, even if you have no symptoms.
  • Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects.
• Pregnancy and Zika

Men Planning Pregnancy with Their Partners

 Wait at least 3 months before trying to conceive

• After travel to an area with risk of Zika, wait at least 3 months after you return, or after symptoms start (if you develop symptoms), before trying to conceive with your partner.
• During this time, use condoms to help protect your partner from getting Zika through sex.
• Protect your partner so she can have a healthy pregnancy
  • You may have been infected with Zika and not know it, since it often does not cause symptoms.
  • There is no available test to know if you have Zika in your semen or how likely you are to pass Zika through sex. Zika can stay in your semen and may be passed to your partner (and the fetus) for months after infection, even if you have no symptoms.
  • If your partner becomes pregnant and infected with Zika, it can cause serious birth defects.

Men Who Are Not Concerned About Pregnancy

 Consider using condoms or not having sex for at least 3 months

• The 3-month period should start when you return from travel or after symptoms start, if you develop symptoms.
• This will help protect your partner from getting Zika through sex if you’re infected and don’t know it. Condoms are the only method for preventing both pregnancy and the spread of Zika.
• If you or your partner has symptoms of Zika or have concerns, talk to a doctor or other healthcare provider.

Traveling with Children

• Most children infected with Zika have no symptoms or have only mild illness, similar to adults with Zika infection.
• CDC’s travel guidance for areas with risk of Zika applies to infants and children, as well as adults. However, there are special things to consider when protecting your baby or child from mosquito bites. See What Parents Should Know about Zika.

If You Have Symptoms of Zika and Might Have Been Exposed

• See a doctor or other healthcare provider right away if you have fever, rash, headache, joint pain, red eyes, or muscle pain and you have recently traveled to an area with risk of Zika.
  • Tell the doctor or other healthcare provider about your travel history or possible exposure.
  • A blood or urine test can identify Zika infection. See more information on testing for Zika.
• Take medicine such as acetaminophen to reduce fever and pain.
• Don’t take aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), like ibuprofen until a healthcare provider diagnoses your condition and can rule out the possibility that you have dengue. Dengue is another disease spread by mosquitoes that causes symptoms similar to Zika and can cause internal bleeding. NSAIDS can increase the risk of bleeding if you have dengue.
• If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to a doctor or other healthcare provider before taking other medicines.
• Make sure to take precautions to prevent the spread of Zika.
  • Use insect repellent to prevent spreading Zika to mosquitoes around you
  • Consider using condoms for at least 3 months after symptoms start (or for the entire pregnancy, if your partner is pregnant) to help protect your partner.

Before your trip

If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• If you are pregnant, you should NOT travel to areas with Zika outbreaks (as indicated by red areas on Zika map). For information on domestic travel, see CDC’s guidance.
• If you or your partner are trying to get pregnant, talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider about your travel plans.

During your trip

Protect yourself from mosquito bites

• Strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites to protect yourself and your family.

Protect yourself during sex

• Use condoms or don’t have sex to avoid getting or spreading Zika during sex if you or your partner has traveled to an area with risk of Zika.
• The amount of time you need to take these steps depends on whether you or your partner has symptoms and whether you or your partner are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Keep mosquitoes outside

• Choose a hotel or lodging with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors.
• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are outside or in a room that does not have screens.

After your trip

Protect yourself from mosquito bites

• Even if you do not feel sick, travelers returning to the United States from an area with risk of Zika should take steps to prevent mosquito bites for 3 weeks so they do not spread Zika to mosquitoes that could spread the virus to other people.

See a doctor or healthcare professional

• If you have symptoms of Zika after travel to an area with risk of Zika, talk to your doctor and tell him or her about your travel.
• If you’re pregnant, talk to your doctor after travel to an area with risk of Zika, even if you don’t feel sick.
• If you’re thinking about trying to become pregnant after travel to an area with risk of Zika, talk to your doctor when you return and see specific recommendations for couples trying to become pregnant.

Protect yourself during sex

• Use condoms or don’t have sex to avoid getting or spreading Zika during sex if you or your partner has traveled to an area with risk of Zika.
• The amount of time you need to take these steps depends on whether you or your partner has symptoms and whether you or your partner are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Be prepared

If you live in a state or area with the mosquito that spreads the Zika virus and are concerned about Zika, build your own Zika Prevention Kit with the items below. Reducing the risk for Zika is particularly important for pregnant women.

Your kit should include:

Bed net

• Keep mosquitoes out of your room, day and night. If your room is not well screened, use a bed net when sleeping or resting.
• Mosquitoes can live indoors and will bite at any time, day or night.

Standing water treatment tabs

• Use water treatment tabs to kill larvae in standing water around your house. Do not put them in water you drink.
• Always follow directions on the package.
• When used as directed, these tabs will not harm you or your pets (dogs and cats).

Insect repellent

• Insect repellent will help keep mosquitoes from biting you.
• Always follow directions on the package.
• Use only an EPA-registered insect repellent.
• Do not spray repellent on the skin under clothing.
• If you are also using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second.
• When used as directed, these insect repellents are proven safe and effective even for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
• Learn how to prevent mosquito bites.

Permethrin spray

• Spray your clothing and gear with permethrin to help protect yourself from mosquito bites.
• Always follow the directions on the bottle. Reapply as directed.
• Do not spray permethrin on your skin.

Condoms

• During sex, it is possible to get Zika virus from a person who has Zika.
• If you have sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) with a partner who may have been exposed to Zika, you should use condoms the right way every time.
• Follow directions on the box.
• Condoms can also help prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
• Learn how to protect during sex and use condoms correctly.

About Zika

Many people infected with Zika virus do not get sick or only have mild symptoms. However, infection during pregnancy can cause severe birth defects.

Zika is still a problem in many parts of the world. Because there is no vaccine or medicine for Zika, travelers should take steps to prevent getting Zika during travel. They should also take steps to prevent spreading it when they return home.

See Zika Travel Information for information on countries and territories with Zika.

How is Zika virus spread?

Zika can spread several ways, including:

1. Through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they bite a person infected with the virus. Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to other people through bites.
2. From a pregnant woman to her developing fetus, or at the time of birth, if the mother is infected with Zika during pregnancy.
3. Through sex with a person who is infected with Zika. Zika can be sexually transmitted from an infected man or woman. But Zika can stay in a man’s semen longer than in a woman’s body fluids. Zika can stay in a man’s semen for months after infection and be transmitted through sex during that time.

Even if people with Zika do not have symptoms, they can still spread the virus.

What can travelers do to prevent Zika?

• Pregnant women should NOT travel to areas with Zika outbreaks (red areas on the map). This is because Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects.
• Before travel to other areas with risk of Zika (purple areas on the map), pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy in the next 3 months should discuss their travel plans with their health care provider and carefully consider the risks and possible consequences of travel to these areas.These areas have a potential risk of Zika, but we do not have accurate information on the current level of risk. As a result, detection and reporting of new outbreaks may be delayed.
• All travelersto areas with risk of Zika should (1) prevent mosquito bites and (2) use condoms or not have sex to protect against Zika during travel. They should continue to take these precautions after their trip to stop the spread of Zika to others back home. See more information below.

Special Precautions for Specific Groups

CDC recommends special precautions for (1) pregnant women, (2) the partners of pregnant women, and (3) those considering pregnancy:

1. Pregnant women

• Do NOT travel to areas with Zika outbreaks (red areas on the map) because Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects.
• Before travel to other areas with risk of Zika (purple areas on the map), discuss your travel plans with your health care provider. Carefully consider the risks and possible consequences of travel to these areas. In deciding whether to travel, consider the destination, your reasons for traveling, your feelings about the potential risks, and your ability to prevent mosquito bites.
• If you must travel:
  • Strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during travel and for 3 weeks after your return.
  • Strictly follow steps to prevent sexual transmission during your trip.
  • See your health care provider after your return for routine prenatal care and if you experience any symptoms of Zika infection.
  • Tell your health care provider at each prenatal care visit about any travel and about possible Zika exposure.
• If your partner travels (to red or purple areas on the map):
  • Use condoms every time you have sex—or do not have sex—for the rest of the pregnancy, even if your partner does not have symptoms or feel sick.

2. Travelers to red or purple areas on the map who have a pregnant partner

• Strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during travel and for 3 weeks after your return.
• Use condoms every time you have sex—or do not have sex— for the rest of the pregnancy, even if you do not have symptoms or feel sick.

3. Travelers to red or purple areas on the map considering pregnancy

• Talk to your health care provider about your pregnancy plans and possible Zika risk before travel.
• Strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during travel and for 3 weeks after your return.
• If you’re a couple traveling together or a man traveling without your partner: Wait at least 3 months after you return (or from the start of symptoms, if the man develops symptoms) before trying to conceive. During that time, use condoms or do not have sex to prevent passing Zika to your partner.
• If you’re a woman (and your male partner does not travel): Wait at least 2 months after you return (or from the start of symptoms, if you develop symptoms) before trying to conceive. During that time, use condoms or do not have sex to prevent passing Zika to your partner.

Men are advised to wait longer because Zika can stay in semen longer than in other body fluids and can be spread to partners during that time.

During Travel: Protect Yourself

• Prevent mosquito bites:
  • Use EPA-registered insect repellents with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone. Always use as directed.
  • Cover exposed skin: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
  • Stay in places with air conditioning or with window and door screens, or sleep under a mosquito bed net.
  • For extended stays take steps to control mosquitoes inside and outside, such as removing standing water. [See more]
• Prevent sexual transmission:
  • Use condoms every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex—or do not have sex—if you are concerned about getting or passing Zika through sex. This is especially important if you or your partner is pregnant or planning to become pregnant. [See more]

After Travel: Protect Others

• Continue using mosquito repellent for 3 weeks after your return, even if you do not feel sick. This will help prevent spreading Zika to uninfected mosquitoes that can spread the virus to other people.
• To protect your partners, use condoms—or do not have sex—for at least 3 months after travel if you are a man, and for at least 2 months after travel if you are a woman. If you and your partner travel together, use condoms for at least 3 months after your return. If your partner is pregnant, use condoms for the rest of her pregnancy.

If you feel sick and think you may have Zika

• Talk to your health care provider if you develop common symptoms of Zika, including fever, rash, headache, joint pain, red eyes, or muscle pain.
• Tell your health care provider where you traveled.
• Take medicine, such as acetaminophen, to reduce fever and pain.
• Do not take aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as ibuprofen, until your health care provider is sure you don't have dengue. Dengue is another disease transmitted by mosquitoes that causes symptoms similar to Zika and can cause internal bleeding.
• If you are taking medicine for another condition or if you are pregnant, talk to your health care provider before taking additional medicines.
• A blood or urine test can identify Zika infection. For more about testing, see CDC Testing Recommendations.

Q: What is Zika?

A: Zika virus disease is caused by the Zika virus, which is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting up to a week, and many people do not have symptoms or will have only mild symptoms. However, Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause a serious birth defect called microcephaly and other severe brain defects.

Q: How do people get infected with Zika?

A: Zika is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus). A pregnant woman can pass Zika to her fetus during pregnancy or around the time of birth. Also, a person with Zika can pass it to his or her sex partners. We encourage people who have traveled to or live in places with risk of Zika to protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites and sexual transmission of Zika.

Q: What health problems can result from getting Zika?

A: Many people infected with Zika will have no symptoms or mild symptoms that last several days to a week. However, Zika infection during pregnancy can cause a serious birth defect called microcephaly and other severe fetal brain defects. Current research suggests that Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), an uncommon sickness of the nervous system, is strongly associated with Zika; however, only a small proportion of people with recent Zika virus infection get GBS.

Once someone has been infected with Zika, it’s very likely they’ll be protected from future infections. There is no evidence that past Zika infection poses an increased risk of birth defects in future pregnancies.

Q: Should pregnant women travel to areas with risk of Zika?

A: Pregnant women should NOT travel to areas with Zika outbreaks (as indicated by red areas on Zika map). Before traveling to other areas with current or past spread of Zika (as indicated by purple areas on Zika map), pregnant women should discuss their travel plans with a doctor. Travelers who go to places with outbreaks or past or current spread (as indicated by red or purple areas on Zika map) can be infected with Zika. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause microcephaly and other severe brain defects.

Q: If I am traveling to an area with risk of Zika, should I be concerned about Zika?

A: Yes. Travelers who go to places with Zika outbreaks (as indicated by red areas on Zika map) or with current or past spread of Zika (as indicated by purple areas on Zika map) might be at risk of infection with Zika. Pregnant women and couples trying to become pregnant within 3 months of travel should work with their healthcare providers to carefully consider the risks and possible consequences of travel. Zika travel notices are posted when there is an outbreak. Because Zika can cause microcephaly and other severe birth defects, pregnant women should NOT travel to any area with a Zika outbreak (as indicated by red areas on Zika map). Women trying to get pregnant should talk to their healthcare providers to carefully consider the risks and possible consequences of Zika infection before traveling to areas reporting current or past spread of Zika (as indicated by purple areas on Zika map), but no current outbreak. Those traveling to areas with Zika outbreaks or with current or past spread of Zika should take steps during and after they travel to prevent mosquito bites and sexual transmission of Zika.

Q: What can people do to prevent Zika?

A: The best way to prevent Zika is to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites:

• Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if air conditioned or screened rooms are not available or if sleeping outdoors.

Zika can be spread by a person infected with Zika to his or her sex partners. Condoms can reduce the chance of getting Zika from sex. Condoms include male and female condoms. To be effective, condoms should be used from start to finish, every time during vaginal, anal, and oral sex and the sharing of sex toys. Not having sex eliminates the risk of getting Zika from sex. Pregnant couples with a partner who traveled to or lives in an area with risk of Zika should use condoms every time they have sex or not have sex during the pregnancy.

Q: What are the symptoms of Zika virus disease?

A: The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, headache, joint pain, red eyes, and muscle pain. Many people infected with Zika won’t have symptoms or will have mild symptoms, which can last for several days to a week.

Q: How is Zika diagnosed?

A: To diagnose Zika, your doctor will ask you about recent travel and symptoms you may have, and collect blood or urine to test for Zika or similar viruses.

Q: Can someone who returned from an area with risk of Zika get tested for the virus?

A: Zika virus testing is performed at CDC and some state and territorial health departments. See your doctor if you have Zika symptoms and have recently been in an area with risk of Zika. Your doctor may order tests to look for Zika or similar viruses like dengue and chikungunya.

Q: What should pregnant women who have recently traveled to an area with risk of Zika do?

A: Pregnant women who have recently traveled to an area with risk of Zika should talk to their doctor about their travel, even if they don’t feel sick. Pregnant women should see a doctor if they have any Zika symptoms during their trip or after traveling. All pregnant women can protect themselves by avoiding travel to an area with risk of Zika, preventing mosquito bites, and following recommended precautions against getting Zika through sex.

Q: I am not pregnant, but will my future pregnancies be at risk if I am infected with Zika virus?

A: Currently, there is no evidence that a woman who has recovered from Zika virus infection (the virus has cleared her body) will have Zika-related pregnancy complications in the future. Based on information about similar infections, once a person has been infected with Zika virus and has cleared the virus from his or her body, he or she is likely to be protected from future Zika infections.

If you’re thinking about having a baby in the near future and you or your partner live in or traveled to an area with risk of Zika, talk with your doctor or other healthcare provider. See Women & Their Partners Trying to Become Pregnant.

Q: I was in a place with risk of Zika recently. How long do I need to wait after returning to get pregnant?

A: Men who have traveled to areas with risk of Zika should wait at least 3 months after travel (or 3 months after symptoms started if they get sick) before trying to conceive with their partner. Women should wait at least 2 months after travel (or 2 months after symptoms started if they get sick) before trying to get pregnant. The waiting period is longer for men because Zika stays in semen longer than in other body fluids.

Q: Which insect repellents work best to prevent infections caused by mosquito bites?

A: To prevent Zika and other diseases spread by mosquitoes, use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents on exposed skin. The insect repellent should include one of the following ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection. Always follow the label instructions when using insect repellent.

Q: How should insect repellents be used on children to prevent mosquito bites and the viruses that some mosquitoes can spread?

A: When using insect repellent on your child always follow label instructions. Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children under 3 years old. Do not apply insect repellent to a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin. Adults should spray insect repellent onto their hands and then apply to a child’s face.

Q: Is it safe for infants or children to travel to an area with risk of Zika?

A: CDC’s travel guidance for areas with risk of Zika applies to infants and children, as well as adults. CDC recommends that those who travel to areas with risk of Zika protect themselves from mosquito bites during travel and for 3 weeks after returning from travel. For safe and effective ways to protect your child from mosquito bites, please visit CDC’s Zika prevention page. Most children infected with Zika virus have no symptoms or have a mild illness, similar to adults with Zika virus infection.

Q: What should I do if I am sick, or a family member is sick, with Zika?

A: Many people infected with Zika virus won’t have symptoms or will only have mild symptoms lasting several days to a week. If you have symptoms of Zika (fever, rash, headache, joint pain, red eyes, or muscle pain) and you live in or recently traveled to an area with risk of Zika, you should see your doctor or healthcare provider and tell him or her about your symptoms and recent travel. There is no specific medicine for Zika, but you can treat the symptoms. If you are diagnosed with Zika, protect those around you by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites and to prevent sexual transmission of Zika. Because Zika can generally be found in blood during approximately the first week of infection and can be passed to another person through mosquito bites, help prevent others from getting sick by strictly following steps to prevent mosquito bites during the first week of illness.

Q: Should we be concerned about Zika in the United States?

A: Local mosquito-borne spread of Zika has been previously reported in the continental United States. In 2018 and 2019, no local mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission has been reported in the continental United States.

Q: What is CDC doing about Zika?

A: CDC is working around the clock to respond to the Zika virus outbreak. CDC’s work includes developing laboratory tests to diagnose Zika, conducting studies to learn more about Zika, publishing reports about Zika, monitoring and reporting cases of Zika, providing guidance to travelers and Americans living in areas with outbreaks, providing on-the-ground support in countries and US territories with current Zika outbreaks, and more. You can find more information here.