At least 935 cases of Zika virus have been detected in the United States, including detection of the virus in 287 pregnant women. All of the U.S. cases have been found in individuals who had been traveling outside of the country. There are no reported cases of transmission within the U.S.
Zika virus is spread primarily by mosquitoes, but it can also be spread through sexual contact, blood transfusion, and from mother to baby during pregnancy. Most people infected with Zika virus show no symptoms, but some do experience rashes, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. The more serious concern is the potential birth defects the virus can cause during pregnancy.
Protection from mosquito bites is crucial for preventing spread of the virus. Some tips for protecting against mosquito bites include wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, using insect repellent, sleeping in places with air conditioning and screened windows, and avoiding standing water in your yard. For more information on Zika virus prevention, visit https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/index.html