Scientists get clearer picture of Zika virus and pregnant women

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Friday, June 9, 2017
Scientists get clearer picture of Zika virus and pregnant women
Scientists get clearer picture of Zika virus and pregnant women. Registered Nurse Ali Gorman reports during Action News at 5 p.m. on June 9, 2017.

Scientists have struggled with estimating the risk of the Zika virus to pregnant women in the past, but now they have a clearer picture.

They also found the risk for birth defects is greatest when a woman is infected during the first trimester.

And even if a woman has no symptoms of the virus, her baby can still be affected.

Scientists are still working on a vaccine.

In the meantime, health officials urge women who are pregnant to avoid Zika-affected areas.

Their male partners also need to take precautions.

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