Zika

virus Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus that is spread by the Aedes species of mosquitoes. It is a member of the Flaviviridae family of viruses, which includes dengue and yellow fever. Zika virus can cause mild to severe illness with symptoms such as fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, and headache. In pregnant women, Zika virus can cause serious birth defects, including microcephaly, a condition where a baby's head is smaller than expected. There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment to prevent Zika virus infection, but the best ways to protect against it are to avoid mosquito bites, prevent mosquito breeding sites, and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants. Zika virus is important to understand and protect against as it can cause serious health problems, especially in pregnant women and their babies.