Zika

How Zika Virus Infection Impacts Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Disclaimer: This page houses important information and resources pertaining to Zika virus infection during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, including links to our evidence-based Fact Sheets. However, the resources here should not replace the care and advice of a medical professional.

Zika is a virus that is usually spread by infected mosquitoes, but can also be spread through sexual contact with an infected partner or blood transfusions with infected blood. In addition, if a person gets Zika during pregnancy, the virus can pass to the developing baby. Four out of 5 people who are infected with Zika do not have any symptoms – but they can still pass the virus to others through sexual contact or to a developing baby in pregnancy.

Reference: Reynolds et al., 2017 and Shapiro-Mendoza et al., 2017

Babies who are exposed to Zika during pregnancy have an increased chance of certain birth defects and developmental problems known as “congenital Zika syndrome” (CZS). Babies who have CZS can have a very small head and brain, severe brain defects, eye defects, hearing loss, seizures, and/or problems with joint and limb movement. Zika infection in pregnancy can also increase the chance of miscarriage or stillbirth.

Zika virus has been found in breast milk, but there are no reports of infants getting Zika from breastfeeding. Based on current information, experts believe that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh any potential risks of Zika infection through breastfeeding.

The only way to completely prevent Zika infection during pregnancy is to not travel to areas with risk of Zika and to use precautions or avoid sex with someone who has recently traveled to a risk area.”

— Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Please see our library of resources below on Zika during pregnancy and breastfeeding. You can also download or order our bilingual Zika Information Rack Card by visiting our Materials Request Form.