The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as
other state and federal agencies have issued health advisories,
guidelines, travel alerts and other information on the Zika
virus. The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus primarily
transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Infection with Zika
virus is asymptomatic in most cases. When Zika virus does cause
illness, the most common symptoms are fever, rash, joint pain,
and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Severe ailments requiring
hospitalization are uncommon. Recent evidence suggests a
possible association between maternal Zika virus infection and
adverse fetal outcomes, such as congenital microcephaly and a
possible association with Guillain-Barré syndrome. No vaccine or
medication exists at this time to prevent or treat Zika virus
infection. Persons residing in or traveling to areas of active
Zika virus transmission should take steps to prevent Zika virus
infection through prevention of mosquito bites. CHA will continue
to share information and resources as they become available.
