The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a warning to spring breakers traveling to countries affected by the Zika virus: "Pack smart."
"College students: Many destinations in the Caribbean and Central and South America have reported Zika. Pack smart for spring break to prevent Zika: bring insect repellent (for mosquitos) and permethrin-treated gear/clothes. Zika can also spread through sex, so use latex condoms if you have sex," the CDC advised in a Thursday Facebook post.
Cases of the Zika virus disease have been confirmed in 15 Caribbean nations, Mexico and throughout the Americas. See a full list here. The virus is most often spread by mosquito bites.
Zika has been linked to a rare fetal abnormality called microcephaly, which can cause a range of problems, according to the CDC, including developmental delays and intellectual disabilities. Women who are pregnant, or may become pregnant, are advised to be especially vigilant.
The disease's typical symptoms include fever and rash.
