FROM THE PUBLIC HEALTH INSIDER

Zika virus is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes and typically causes a mild or even unapparent illness. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eyes). Symptoms typically begin two to seven days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine to prevent infection or medicine to treat Zika.

Many people do not realize they have been infected. Zika infection is primarily a concern for pregnant women because it can cause infections that result in the baby having a serious problem called microcephaly , an abnormally small brain and skull, and other poor pregnancy outcomes.

Zika outbreaks are occurring in Brazil and Pacific Islands, and Zika is also active in other countries in the Americas. And as of late January, there are no current Zika transmission in the United States.

The CDC has issued a travel alert advising special precautions for people, especially pregnant women, traveling to countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing: Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Suriname, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico.

Until more is known, and out of an abundance of caution, CDC recommends special precautions for pregnant women and women trying to become pregnant:

Pregnant women in any trimester should consider postponing travel to the areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. Pregnant women who do travel to one of these areas should talk to their doctor or other healthcare provider first and strictly follow steps to avoid mosquito bites during the trip.

Women trying to become pregnant should consult with their healthcare provider before traveling to these areas and strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during the trip.

Women who are pregnant should see their healthcare provider if they develop a fever, rash, joint pain, or red eyes within two weeks after traveling to a country where Zika virus cases have been reported. Pregnant women should be sure to tell their health care provider where they traveled.

Specific areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing are difficult to determine and likely to change over time, and CDC will update travel advice as information becomes available. Check the CDC travel website frequently for the most up-to-date recommendations.

We’ve answered some questions you may have about Zika virus and how to protect yourself from it.

How can I protect myself from Zika infection?

Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

Stay and sleep in screened-in or air-conditioned rooms.

For more information about Zika virus including information about Zika in pregnancy, see: http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html.