Zika virus is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which mainly bites during the day, and indoors. Symptoms include fever, headaches and aching joints - like a dose of flu. Only about one in five people who are infected will develop symptoms.
Pregnant women have the same risk as the rest of the population of being infected with Zika virus, which is transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. Many women may remain unaware they have the virus, as they may not develop any symptoms. Zika virus can be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her fetus during pregnancy or around the time of birth.
What areas should pregnant women avoid?
- Caribbean, Central America and South America
What should I do if I recently visited a country?
- Consult a doctor (blood tests & an ultrasound scan)
Is there a vaccine? How do I protect myself?
- No vaccine. Avoid or minimize mosquito bites.
More info: http://www.cdc.gov/zika/hc-providers/qa-pregnant-women.html
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