WHO: Sexual Transmission Of Zika More Common, New Guide Released
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- World health officials says sexual transmission of Zika is more common than they first thought.
Due to the new findings, the agency is updating its guidelines geared towards women who have been in areas affected by the virus.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said that women planning to become pregnant should wait at least eight weeks before trying to conceive. This is to make sure the virus has cleared their bodies. The agency had previously said a four-week minimum period was enough.
The virus - which has been linked to birth defects like microcephaly, Guillain-Barré syndrome and other neurological disorders - can also be transmitted through mosquitoes.
Related: CDC Says Zika Definitely Causes Severe Birth Defects
The organization says the new guidelines will be reviewed again once new evidence emerges.
Click here for the new guide from WHO on preventing sexual transmission of the Zika virus.
Experts say we can all do our part in preventing the spread of Zika starting in our own homes. Click here for tips on how to prevent the spread of Zika.
Click here for more information on the Zika virus.