Description:

Zika Virus has been in the news lately. Until recently, it was known as a rare and unremarkable virus that was connected to a few small outbreaks. In 2015, the virus tore through South America, and carried a previously unseen side effect: severe birth defects. This has understandably caused a lot of concern about the spread and risk of contracting this disease, and leaves people with many important questions:

· Does everyone who gets it get sick?

· Does it only affect the brains of the fetus?

· Is sex safe after Zika and if so when?

· What are the precautions I should take to protect myself and my loved ones?

· I have great seats for the Olympics in Rio--should I go?

· Is this a new super form of Zika?

This talk will provide answers to these questions, as well as illuminate the bigger picture around this disease. The science around Zika has expanded quickly and there is much to share.

Dr. Daniel Johnson, MD, FAAP, is Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Chicago Medicine (UCM), Vice Chair for Clinical Services, Section Chief of Academic Pediatrics and Interim Section Chief for Pediatric Infectious Diseases.