Zika Virus Travel Alert

The Caribbean travel season is in full swing, and the CDC wants us to be mindful of protecting ourselves from biting mosquitoes. Further, pregnant women should be informed about their potential exposure to the Zika Virus from these pesky skeeters.

Zika virus is spread to people through mosquito bites. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week. Severe disease requiring hospitalization is uncommon.

In May 2015, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an alert regarding the first confirmed Zika virus infection in Brazil. The outbreak in Brazil led to reports of Guillain-Barre syndrome and pregnant women giving birth to babies with birth defects and poor pregnancy outcomes.

In response, CDC has issued a travel alert for people traveling to regions and certain countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

To learn more, check out the CDC Zika Virus Page.

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