Zika Disease

Pregnancy and Zika Virus Disease

Zika virus disease, or Zika, is an illness that can spread to people from mosquitoes that carry the virus. It may also spread from person to person through infected body fluids. Zika first occurred in Africa, but it has recently spread to new areas. The virus occurs in tropical climates. The location of Zika continues to change.
Most people who become infected with the Zika virus do not have serious illness. However, Zika may cause birth defects in an unborn baby whose mother is infected with the virus. It may also increase the risk of miscarriage.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ZIKA VIRUS DISEASE?
Many people do not have any symptoms when infected with the Zika virus. If symptoms appear, they usually start about a week after the person is infected. Symptoms are mild and may include:
• Fever.
Yes, Zika can pass from a mother to her baby before or during birth.

WHAT PROBLEMS CAN ZIKA CAUSE FOR MY BABY?
Women who are infected with the Zika virus while pregnant are at risk of having their baby born with a brain or head that is smaller than expected (microcephaly). Babies with microcephaly can have developmental delays, seizures, hearing problems, and vision problems. Having Zika virus disease during pregnancy can also increase the risk of miscarriage.

HOW CAN ZIKA VIRUS DISEASE BE PREVENTED?
There is no vaccine to prevent Zika. The best way to prevent the disease is to avoid infected mosquitoes and avoid exposure to body fluids that can spread the virus. Pregnant women or those trying to get pregnant should avoid any possible exposure to Zika. They should take the following precautions:
• Avoid travel to high-risk areas. Check the CDC travel website at www.cdc.gov/zika/geo/index.html to identify these areas. The locations where Zika is being reported are changing often.
• If you must travel, talk with a health care provider before going to areas where Zika is