General · Texas behavioral health news
Zika Virus for Health Care Professionals
Texas DSHS · By Ilza.Garcia · April 23, 2026
In plain language
Zika virus is a disease spread by mosquitoes and sexual contact that can cause serious health issues for babies if a mother is infected during pregnancy. Texas health officials now recommend Zika testing only for people who show symptoms like fever, rash, or joint pain, especially those who are pregnant. Because the virus can stay in the body for some time, men and women who have been exposed are encouraged to wait several months before trying to conceive to protect the health of their future children.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- Zika testing is currently only recommended for people showing symptoms, regardless of pregnancy or travel status.
- Pregnant women with symptoms should be tested using a PCR test if they have been exposed to risk areas.
- Men should wait at least three months after Zika exposure before trying to conceive a child.
- Women should wait at least eight weeks after Zika exposure before attempting to become pregnant.
- Common Zika symptoms include a skin rash, fever, red eyes, and joint pain.
- Breastfeeding is still encouraged because the benefits generally outweigh the low risk of virus transmission through milk.
Zika Virus for Health Care Professionals Ilza.Garcia Thu, 04/23/2026 - 10:24 AM Zika Virus for Health Care Professionals This page provides information about Zika Virus for Health Care Professionals . Preconception Counseling and Prevention of Sexual Transmission of Zika Virus Possible exposure to Zika virus is defined as travel to or residence in an area of active Zika virus transmission, or sex (vaginal, anal, or oral sex) without a condom with a person who recently traveled to or lived in an area of current or prior Zika virus transmission. Women and men who live in areas of Zika virus transmission risk should talk with their healthcare provider about attempting conception. Women who may have been exposed to Zika virus should wait to conceive until at least 8 weeks after symptom onset or the last possible Zika virus exposure. Men exposed to Zika should wait to try to conceive until at least 3 months after symptom onset or the last possible Zika virus exposure
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