Zika Virus

Protect yourself. Know Zika Virus

Zika is a virus that is usually spread by certain kinds of mosquitoes. It can also be spread from one person to another through sexual contact or blood transfusion. For most people it is a mild infection with few or no symptoms. But it has been linked to health problems in some people. It is a serious concern for pregnant women, their partners and couples planning a pregnancy because it can cause serious birth defects. Zika is not spread from person to person by casual contact.

There have been several outbreaks of Zika virus in Central America, South America, the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Southeast Asia. Recently, a small number of Zika infections have been discovered in parts of Florida and Texas that were likely spread by mosquitoes. To date, the only cases in New York State are in people who acquired the virus while traveling to Zika-affected areas, or through sexual transmission from someone who had traveled to those areas.

Once a person has been infected, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections. Right now, there is no vaccine to prevent Zika.

Public health officials are working hard to learn more about Zika. In the meantime, they are strongly encouraging people to avoid mosquito bites and to control mosquito populations to help make sure Zika doesn't become widespread in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Mosquito Dunks ® (larvicide)

Statewide Mosquito-borne Disease Activity Report