Zika Virus: For pregnant women

Zika virus can be spread from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby. There have been reports of a serious birth defect of the brain called microcephaly and other poor pregnancy outcomes in babies of mothers who were infected with Zika virus while pregnant. Knowledge of the link between Zika and these outcomes is evolving, but until more is known, CDC recommends special precautions for the following groups:

• Women who are pregnant (in any trimester):
  • Consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.
  • If you must travel to one of these areas, talk to your doctor first and strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bitesduring your trip.
  • If you have a male partner who lives in or has traveled to an area where Zika transmission is ongoing, either abstain from sex or use condoms consistently and correctly for the duration of your pregnancy.
• Women who are trying to become pregnant:
  • Before you or your male partner travel, talk to your doctor about your plans to become pregnant and the risk of Zika virus infection.
  • You and your male partner should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites.

Specific areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing are often difficult to determine and are likely to change over time. As more information becomes available, this travel notice will be updated. Please check back frequently for the most up-to-date recommendations.