Zika and Pregnancy:

Zika Virus Information:

  • The Zika Virus can be spread from the pregnant mother to the baby during pregnancy.
  • Getting infected with the Zika Virus during pregnancy may be linked to birth defects in babies.
  • The Zika Virus is spread by being bitten by and infected mosquito. These mosquitoes are known to bite throughout the day. The species is an Aedes species of mosquito.
  • Outbreaks are likely to continue due to the tropical region the mosquitoes that spread the virus are found.

What We Don’t Know About the Zika Virus:

  • Is there a safe time to travel to a Zika area when pregnant?
  • If you are pregnant and become infected:
    • How likely are you to get the Zika Virus?
    • How will the virus affect your pregnancy?
    • Will the virus cause birth defects in your baby?

Symptoms of Zika Virus:

  • 4 out of 5 people that become infected with the Zika Virus will not have any symptoms or even know they are infected with the virus.
  • Symptoms are usually mild symptoms.
    • Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
    • Fever
    • Rash
    • Joint Pain

If You are Pregnant:

  • Consider delaying travel to areas where Zika is spreading.
  • If you have to travel to those areas, make sure you talk to your doctor before doing so.
  • Follow steps to prevent mosquito bites while traveling.
  • If your partner has traveled or lives in an area where Zika is spreading, abstain from sex or use condoms correctly during your entire pregnancy.

If You are Trying to Become Pregnant:

  • Talk to your doctor about trying to get pregnant, traveling to areas where Zika is spreading and the risk of getting Zika.
  • Follow the proper steps to prevent mosquito bites while traveling.
  • Consider using condoms if your significant other is from an area where Zika is spreading or has traveled to areas with Zika.

Mosquito Bite Prevention:

  • Wear long sleeved shirts and pants.
  • Treat your clothes or buy clothing treated in permethrin.
  • Stay in buildings with air-conditioning or screens to prevent the entry of mosquitoes.
  • Sleep under a mosquito net if you are in open air while sleeping.

Use EPA Registered Bug Repellent:

  • Always follow product label instructions.
  • Remember to reapply insect repellent.
  • Do not spray repellent on the skin that is under clothing.
  • If you are using sunscreen, apply sunscreen before applying repellent.

For more information on the Zika Virus, please visit: WWW.CDC.Gov/Zika