### What is Zika Virus? The Zika virus is primarily spread by Aedes mosquitoes, the same type that carries dengue fever, yellow fever, and chikungunya virus. It can also be transmitted sexually. The virus was first identified in Uganda in 1947 and spread to the South Pacific in 2007. ### Symptoms Most people infected with Zika virus do not show symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include: - Fever - Rash - Joint pain - Redness in the whites of the eyes (conjunctivitis or pinkeye) Symptoms typically appear 3 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and can last from several days to a week. ### Risks Zika virus can cause serious birth defects in babies born to infected pregnant women, including microcephaly, where babies are born with underdeveloped heads and brain damage. It has also been linked to Guillain-Barre syndrome, a condition where the immune system attacks the nerves. ### Prevention To prevent Zika virus infection: - Avoid mosquito bites by using repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and using screens on windows and doors. - Eliminate standing water around your home where mosquitoes can lay eggs. - If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, avoid traveling to areas where Zika is spreading. - Use condoms or abstain from sex if you or your partner have traveled to areas with Zika outbreaks. ### Treatment There is no specific treatment for Zika virus. Most people recover with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications for pain and fever. Avoid taking aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) until dengue fever is ruled out to reduce the risk of bleeding. ### Travel Advice The CDC recommends that pregnant women and couples planning a pregnancy consult with their healthcare provider before traveling to areas with ongoing Zika transmission. Check the CDC website for the latest travel advisories.