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Related Concept Videos

Sexually Transmitted Infections01:26

Sexually Transmitted Infections

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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases transmitted primarily through unsafe sexual interactions. Bacteria, viruses, or parasites cause them and can result in severe health complications if untreated.ChlamydiaThe bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis is responsible for the disease Chlamydia, the most common STI in the United States. This peculiar pathogen requires human cells to reproduce, residing intracellularly. The initial infection often goes unnoticed because it typically does not...
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Symbiotic relationships are long-term, close interactions between individuals of different species that affect the distribution and abundance of those species. When a relationship is beneficial to both species, this is called mutualism. When the relationship is beneficial to one species but neither beneficial nor harmful to the other species, this is called commensalism. When one organism is harmed to benefit another, the relationship is known as parasitism. These types of relationships often...
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Infection01:20

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When a pathogen enters the body and reproduces, it can cause an infection, damage body cells, and cause illness symptoms that eventually lead to disease. Therefore, its prevention requires breaking the chain of infection.
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Updated: Feb 18, 2026

Zika Virus Infectious Cell Culture System and the In Vitro Prophylactic Effect of Interferons
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Zika virus as a sexually transmitted pathogen.

Paul S Mead1, Susan L Hills1, John T Brooks2

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Current Opinion in Infectious Diseases
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Zika virus (ZIKV) can spread through sexual contact, posing risks for birth defects. Current guidelines recommend precautions for at least 6 months to prevent transmission, though more research is needed.

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Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Zika virus (ZIKV) has transitioned from an obscure pathogen to a global health concern.
  • It is the first virus in decades confirmed to cause birth defects and the only arbovirus known to transmit sexually.
  • Understanding ZIKV's sexual transmission is critical for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on Zika virus sexual transmission.
  • To discuss the clinical and public health implications of ZIKV sexual transmission.

Main Methods:

  • Review of published literature on Zika virus sexual transmission.
  • Analysis of case reports and scientific findings on ZIKV RNA detection in various body fluids.
  • Examination of public health recommendations for preventing sexual transmission.

Main Results:

  • Sexual transmission of ZIKV is documented in multiple countries, independent of mosquito-borne transmission.
  • Transmission occurs from symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals, affecting various partner combinations (male-to-female, male-to-male, female-to-male).
  • ZIKV RNA is detectable in semen for extended periods (over 180 days), though replicative virus presence is less consistent.

Conclusions:

  • Significant gaps remain in understanding ZIKV contagiousness duration and transmission risk factors.
  • Preventing sexual transmission is crucial, especially to protect pregnant women and fetuses from ZIKV-related birth defects.
  • Public health guidance includes extended periods of condom use or sexual abstinence for affected individuals and their partners.