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Zika Resource Center
February 24, 2016
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CDC investigating 14 additional reports of sexually transmitted Zika virus

The CDC and state health departments are currently investigating 14 new reports of possible sexual transmission of the Zika virus, according to a press release.

The agency also issued a Health Alert Network Advisory, acknowledging that "sexual transmission may be a more likely means of transmission for Zika virus than previously considered."

As detailed by the CDC, information indicates that the cases involved men who traveled to areas affected by Zika and reported symptoms within 2 weeks before their female partner's symptoms began.

Zika virus has been confirmed in two women whose only known risk was sexual contact with a male partner who was ill, according to the CDC. Test results for the male partners are still pending.

Confirmatory tests are also pending for four women who are suspected sexually transmitted cases. Investigation is still active for eight other suspected events.

Several of the cases involve pregnant women, but the CDC did not specify how many. There is still no evidence that women can sexually transmit Zika to their partners, according to the CDC.

The agency reiterated guidance that it issued earlier in February regarding sex with partners who live in or have traveled to areas affected by Zika.

Men who have traveled to or reside in an area with ongoing Zika virus transmission should abstain from having sex with their pregnant partners or "consistently and correctly use condoms during sex for the duration of the pregnancy." This includes sexual activities such as vaginal intercourse, anal intercourse and fellatio.

Men who have sex with partners who are not pregnant should consider abstaining from sexual activity or similarly use condoms.

The CDC stated that couples should consider several factors before making any decisions regarding sex, including the fact that most infections are asymptomatic or manifest with mild symptoms. Additionally, the virus may persist in semen even when it is no longer detectable in blood.

The agency plans to revise the recommendations as more information becomes available.

Reference:

CDC Health Alert Network. Update: Interim Guidelines for Prevention of Sexual Transmission of Zika Virus — United States, 2016. Accessed February 24, 2016