"Mosquitoes can spread many diseases, including Zika. Although most people with Zika won’t have symptoms, infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Learn how to protect yourself and your family from Zika.
Zika virus spreads primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito (Aedes aegypti or Ae. albopictus). Zika can also be passed through sex from a person who has Zika to his or her sex partners. Although most people with Zika won’t have symptoms, infection during pregnancy can cause microcephaly and other serious birth defects in babies.
The mosquitoes that carry Zika can be found in many countries, and outbreaks of Zika are still occurring in parts of the world. Everyone can take steps to protect themselves and pregnant women in the United States.
Know the Signs and Symptoms of Zika
Many people infected with Zika virus won’t know they have it because they won’t have symptoms. Symptoms are usually mild and 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. The most common symptoms of Zika include
- Fever
- Rash
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
- Muscle pain.."
Zika
