What is Zika Virus and Why is it Important?
Zika virus is spread to people through mosquito bites. A pregnant woman can pass Zika to her fetus during pregnancy or around the time of birth. Also, a man with Zika can pass it to sex partners. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week.
Though the illness itself is mild, women who are infected with Zika Virus during a pregnancy can pass the infection to the fetus, who may be born with severe birth defects. Learn more about the Zika Virus and pregnancy.
Who Should be Concerned, and What Should They Do?
- Any Boise State University student, faculty or staff member who has recently traveled or plans to travel outside of the United States should pay attention to the Centers for Disease Control travel alerts related to Zika Virus infection.
- Travelers to major areas * where Zika Virus has been reported should check to see if there is a travel alert in place for the specific destination country.
- Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should rethink their plans to travel to any area where Zika Virus has been reported (there are also  areas in the continental US with confirmed Zika outbreaks). You should check with your healthcare provider for more specific recommendations.
- See your doctor if you have Zika symptoms and have recently visited an area with Zika. Your doctor may order tests to look for Zika or similar viruses like dengue and chikungunya.
* Zika Virus has been reported in South and Central America (including Mexico), Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Check the CDC website for a full list of countries that have reported outbreaks of Zika Virus:
For more information about Zika Virus or any other travel-related health questions, call Boise State University Health Services at 208-426-1459.