Zika Virus Disease
2 Active OutbreaksZika Virus Disease is a viral infection caused by the Zika virus, primarily transmitted by mosquitoes. While often mild, it's notorious for causing severe birth defects, particularly microcephaly, when pregnant women are infected. It's most common in tropical and subtropical regions.
Don't find out from the news. Track this outbreak and 200+ diseases in real time.
What is Zika Virus Disease?
Zika virus was first identified in 1947 in a rhesus monkey in the Zika Forest of Uganda, with human cases documented since 1952. It gained global attention with major outbreaks in the Americas in 2015-2016 due to its severe link to microcephaly and other neurological conditions.
Symptoms
- Fever (typically mild)
- Rash
- Joint pain
- Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Many infected people show no symptoms or very mild ones.
Transmission
Zika Virus Disease primarily spreads through the bite of infected Aedes species mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. It can also be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her fetus, causing birth defects. Less commonly, it can spread through sexual contact and blood transfusions.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
Prevention
- Prevent mosquito bites: Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and stay in screened or air-conditioned rooms.
- Eliminate mosquito breeding sites: Remove standing water from containers around your home.
- Prevent sexual transmission: Use condoms or abstain from sex if you or your partner have recently traveled to or live in a Zika-affected area.
- Pregnant women should avoid travel to areas with active Zika transmission.
- No vaccine is currently available.
Live Zika Virus Disease Global Case Map
2 countries with reported activity. Updated from real-time surveillance data.
United States — State Detail
1 state with reported activity. Click a state for detailed surveillance.
Active Outbreaks & Recent Cases
Real-time intelligence from global health monitoring and AI-powered surveillance
Data sources: BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies
✓ Live data updated in real-time from global health sources
🚨 Zika Virus Outbreak ...
An ongoing Zika virus outbreak demands immediate public health attention due to its potential for rapid spread and severe health consequences. Public health agencies must implement rapid containment and prevention strategies, while individuals should be aware of risks and take protective measures, especially pregnant women. This situation necessitates urgent action to protect vulnerable populations.
Zika Alert: Bali Travelers at Risk, Indonesia Outbreak
This event envelope includes reports on Zika virus disease in Indonesia.
Source: BEACON - View Full Report
Don't find out from the news. Track this outbreak and 200+ diseases in real time.
Expert Resources & References
Trusted information from leading health organizations
CDC
Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
View CDC Resources →WHO
Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization
View WHO Resources →Medically Reviewed Content
Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-18
Get the weekly outbreak digest.
What's active, what's spreading, and what to watch. No spam.
Stay Ahead of Zika Virus Disease Outbreaks
Don't find out from the news. Track this outbreak and 200+ diseases in real time.
