Today’s Zika outbreak is unprecedented. Although it was first identified almost 70 years ago, Zika virus has only now been identified as a cause of microcephaly and other severe fetal brain defects. Never before in history has there been a situation where a bite from a mosquito could result in a devastating malformation. It has spread to over 50 countries/territories throughout the world, including the United States. CDC’s knowledge of Zika is evolving daily; we are acting based on what we know now, while at the same time, discovering more so we can continue to improve our ability to prevent, detect, and respond to Zika. CS272486-A zikaresponsefunding.pdf

Stephen B. Thacker CDC Library collection