The first cases of the recent Zika virus outbreak were reported in Brazil in May 2015. This virus is transmitted by (mainly Aedes) mosquitoes and has been an ongoing issue in South America and other regions. According to the World Health Organization, the Zika virus is expected to spread to all but two countries in the Americas.
The Zika virus has been linked to babies born with microcephaly, a neurological condition that can result in an abnormally small head and developmental delays. The condition can sometimes be fatal. For this reason, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned pregnant women not to travel to many countries that could put them at risk of coming in contact with the virus. Some of these countries include Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Paraguay, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico. Anyone who has recently traveled to these regions should be screened for the virus.
There have been confirmed cases of the Zika virus in the United States from individuals returning from travels in areas were the Zika virus is spreading. There is a risk of humans transmitting the virus to mosquitoes located in the United States, which could then transmit the virus to other humans.
There is unfortunately no way to prevent the Zika virus. All individuals should use mosquito repellant and cover any exposed skin. The symptoms of the virus include rash, fever, red eyes, and joint pain. However, about 80% of those affected do not experience any symptoms.