Zika Virus: Understanding the Risks and Taking Precautions

Risk Assessment by Region

A map highlighting the states most at risk for a Zika outbreak is crucial in understanding the geographic distribution of the virus. The map indicates:

• High-risk areas: marked in red
• Moderate-risk areas: marked in orange
• Low-risk areas: marked in yellow

Pregnant or Trying to Get Pregnant?

If you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant, it’s essential to take extra precautions:

• Canceled or postponed travel: avoid traveling to countries with a Zika outbreak, as recommended by the CDC
• Birth defects and Zika link: although pregnant women aren’t more likely to contract the virus, there is a possible link between Zika and birth defects
• Local outbreak precautions: if an outbreak occurs where you live, consult your doctor and take steps to avoid mosquito bites, such as:
  • wearing long sleeves and pants
  • using an EPA-registered insect repellent
  • staying in places with screens or air conditioning

Talk to Your Doctor Before Traveling

If you’re trying to get pregnant, consult your doctor before traveling to countries impacted by the Zika virus:

• Future pregnancies: if you’re not planning to get pregnant for many months, traveling to a country with Zika is less of a concern
• Virus clearance: even if you become infected, the CDC says it shouldn’t pose a risk for future pregnancies once the virus clears the blood

Traveling to an Area with a Zika Outbreak?

Take special care to:

• Avoid mosquito bites: use EPA-registered insect repellents and wear protective clothing
• Use condoms: for oral, anal, or vaginal sex, as Zika may be transmitted through semen

What If You Get Infected?

You may not even notice you’ve contracted Zika, as most people don’t show any signs of the virus:

• Symptoms: only one in five who contract Zika have symptoms, such as fever, joint pain, pinkeye, or a rash
• Incubation period: symptoms can appear anywhere from two to 12 days after the bite

The Bottom Line

Unless you or your partner are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, you’re likely in the clear. However, it’s still essential to:

• Take precautions when traveling: to areas with a Zika outbreak
• Consult your doctor: if you have any concerns

By being informed and taking necessary steps, you can minimize your risk of contracting the Zika virus.