Zika Virus

Zika fever is an illness caused by a mosquito-borne virus similar to those that cause dengue and West Nile virus infection. Common symptoms include fever, rash and muscle pain, though only 1 in 5 cases is symptomatic. Zika has also been linked to serious birth defects, including microcephaly, when contracted by expectant mothers during pregnancy. (FloridaHealth)

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• What is the Zika virus?
• What are the symptoms associated with the Zika virus?
• Aside from direct contact, how else can the Zika virus be transmitted?
• What is microcephaly and how is it related to the Zika outbreak?
• How have travel guidelines affected tourists/tourism in areas where the Zika virus has been confirmed?
• What preventative steps can be taken to minimize the spread of the Zika virus?