Skip to main content

Zika Virus

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 29, 2024.

AMBULATORY CARE:

Zika virus

is carried by mosquitos. The virus is spread to a human through the bite of an infected mosquito.

How Zika virus is spread:

Zika virus may be passed from a mother to her unborn baby. The virus may also be passed from one person to another through sex. This includes oral, anal, or vaginal sex with a man or woman. You may be at risk for Zika virus if you travel or live in an area with infected mosquitos. Mosquitoes are usually found near water. Examples include ponds, buckets of water, animal dishes, and flower pots. Infected mosquitoes bite most often during the day.

Common signs and symptoms include the following:

You may not have signs or symptoms of Zika virus. If you develop symptoms, they may happen suddenly and last for 2 to 7 days. You may have any of the following:

Zika Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

Seek care immediately if:

Call your doctor if:

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

Manage your symptoms:

Prevent Zika virus infection:

There is currently no vaccine to prevent Zika virus infection. Do not travel to areas where Zika virus is common. Ask your healthcare provider where it is safe to travel. Prevent mosquito bites to help decrease your risk for Zika virus infection:

Zika Sources and Prevention

Prevent the spread of Zika virus through sex:

Zika virus may stay in your body for weeks to months after you are infected. You can spread Zika virus to your partner without knowing you are infected. Use protection for all types of sexual contact with a man or woman. Ask your healthcare provider how long you need to use protection. Protection may include a condom or barrier method. Use a new condom or latex barrier each time you have sex. This includes oral, vaginal, and anal sex. Make sure that the condom fits and is put on correctly. If you are allergic to latex, use a nonlatex product such as polyurethane.

What you need to know about Zika virus and pregnancy:

For the most up-to-date information on Zika virus:

Knowledge about the Zika virus is changing quickly. Get the most up-to-date information at:

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.