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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

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Overview

Zika virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected Aedes species of mosquito.   In the state of California, two invasive Aedes species of mosquito have been detected:  Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.

The Aedes aegypti mosquito is of particular concern as a vector for the spread of Zika virus to humans for the reasons that follow (Source:California Department of Public Health (CDPH), February 2016):  

  • The Aedes aegypti thrive in urban habitats.
  • Aedes aegypti tends to be most active during daylight hours.  
  • Aedes aegypti is an aggressive and persistent biter with a preference for biting humans.

Local transmission of Zika virus by an infected Aedes mosquito has been reported within the continental United States .  No local transmission has been reported in the state of California.

Cases of Zika virus reported in the state of California have been associated with travel to areas where Zika infected Aedes mosquitos are found or have been sexually transmitted (2/16/2017).  For the most current information on the status of Zika virus in California, visit the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Vector-borne Disease Section.

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