Based on rapidly evolving information about the Zika virus, particularly related to risks during pregnancy, the CDC continues to provide updated guidelines for providers caring for women of childbearing age with possible Zika virus exposures as well as recommendations regarding potential sexual transmission of Zika virus.
In addition to an increasing number of travel-related cases in the United States, and widespread transmission of Zika in Puerto Rico, there have been several recent cases of mosquito-borne transmission of Zika virus in Florida. The most recent CDC guidance specifically addresses travel to these affected areas in Florida.
The primary concern with Zika virus infections continues to be the potential for adverse pregnancy outcomes. The full spectrum of pregnancy-related complications is still incompletely defined, but these risks are significant.
The primary mode of acquiring Zika infection remains by a bite from an infected Aedes mosquito; thus, in most instances risk for infection should end after leaving a Zika affected area. There is also strong evidence for sexual transmission of Zika virus. The magnitude of risk of sexual transmission and duration of the potential period of risk for transmission remains incompletely defined.
Using conservative estimates of risk from currently available data, the CDC continues to recommend that men who have had symptomatic Zika virus infection wait at least six months after symptom onset before attempting conception with their non-pregnant partners, and they should use appropriate methods to prevent possible pregnancy during this six month period.
The CDC also recommends that anyone who has traveled to or resided in a Zika affected area without symptoms of Zika virus infection should wait at least eight weeks before attempting to conceive. Either abstinence or strict use of condoms throughout the duration of the pregnancy is still recommended for the male partners of pregnant women when the partner may have traveled to or resided in a Zika affected area.
There is currently no recommendation for routine testing of asymptomatic men who have been in a Zika affected area. Providers should include travel to Florida, particularly to the Miami area, as a risk of exposure to the Zika virus, especially in regards to pregnant women and those considering becoming pregnant.
Travel to this area should be avoided, and returning travelers should be informed of the risk. Further local transmission of the Zika virus is being carefully monitored as transmission could be found in other regions of the United States, especially in other areas of Florida and the Gulf Coast.
If you or your family members are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or are otherwise considering travel to an area with Zika virus talk to your health care provider. Review the latest recommendations from the CDC which can be found by clicking here.