By Alice Park
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed the first recent case in the continental U.S. of the Zika virus–which has been linked to serious birth defects in infected pregnant women–in Houston. Here’s what to know.
ORIGIN
The latest batch of cases were detected in Latin America; it’s primarily spread by infected mosquitoes.
SYMPTOMS
People can develop a fever, a rash and red eyes, as well as muscle pain, headaches and nausea.
PREVENTION
Using insect repellent can protect against mosquito bites.
LONG-TERM RISK
For most people, it’s very low: only about 1 in 5 people who are infected actually get sick, and symptoms typically clear up within a week with rest and fluids.
–Alice Park
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Biden Drops Out of Presidential Race , Endorses Harris to Replace Him
- Why Biden Dropped Out
- The Chaos and Commotion of the RNC in Photos
- Why We All Have a Stake in Twisters’ Success
- 8 Eating Habits That Actually Improve Your Sleep
- Stop Feeling Bad About Sweating
- Welcome to the Noah Lyles Olympics
- Get Our Paris Olympics Newsletter in Your Inbox
Contact us at letters@time.com