28,267 Zika Cases Confirmed Across the Americas

While most people assume Zika virus outbreaks ended a few years ago, new data from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) clearly indicates that Zika remains a significant health risk.

As of November 8, 2023, the PAHO dashboard reported 28,267 Zika cases from countries in the Americas, primarily in Central and South America.

The leading countries reporting Zika outbreaks are led by Brazil, with over 26,000 cases, followed by Bolivia, Belize, Columbia, Paraguay, and Venezuela.

In the United States, Puerto Rico's Weekly Report on Arboviral Diseases shows 33 probable Zika cases this year and 20 cases in 2022.

Zika is primarily spread to people by the bite of a mosquito infected with the virus, but it can also be passed during sex from a person infected with Zika.

Furthermore, Congenital Zika-associated syndrome is a set of anomalies (microcephaly) seen in infants born to mothers with a history of gestational Zika fever.

The U.S. CDC recommends that pregnant women and couples planning a pregnancy within the next three months consult with a healthcare provider before visiting an area reporting a Zika outbreak.

As of November 2023, there are no approved Zika vaccines.