Zika Virus

Zika virus is spread mostly by the bite of an Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes are aggressive biters and prefer to live around people inside or outside their homes. Zika virus can also be transmitted sexually, and from an infected mother to her fetus. Symptoms of Zika virus include fever, joint pain, rash, and pink eye. Many people feel no symptoms at all. Zika virus can be spread before symptoms begin, during symptoms and after symptoms subside. Zika virus can also be found in other body fluids such as blood, saliva and urine.

How to Prevent Zika Virus

Prevention measures include:

• Avoid travel to Zika affected areas. If you are traveling to these areas, use insect repellent and long sleeved clothing
• Eliminate standing water from places where water collects such as potted plants, old tires, ornamental water fountains, bromeliads, and even from sources as small as a discarded candy wrapper
• For daily protection, use insect repellent when outdoors
• Seal septic tanks to prevent mosquito breeding
• Seal rain barrels or water collection containers to prevent mosquito breeding

Addition Information

For further information on Zika Virus please click on the links below:

• Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Acute Communicable Disease Control
• Vector Control Agencies
• California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)

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