Infection?with Zika can make dengue more severe.

Studies have shown that a prior Zika infection can increase the risk of developing severe dengue and requiring hospitalization. This is because Zika and dengue viruses are both flaviviruses, which means they share some similarities in their structure and how they interact with the human immune system. When someone has had a prior Zika infection, their immune system may be primed to react more strongly to a subsequent dengue infection, which can lead to a more severe case.

Zika and dengue: Increased risk of severe dengue: People who have had Zika are about 2.3 times more likely to develop severe dengue than those who have not.

• Increased risk of hospitalization: People with a prior Zika infection are also about 3.4 times more likely to be hospitalized for dengue than those without a prior infection.
• Mechanism: The exact mechanism by which Zika increases the severity of dengue is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the way that the immune system reacts to the viruses.

It is important to note that not everyone who has had Zika will develop severe dengue if they are infected with the dengue virus. However, it is important to be aware of the increased risk and to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of dengue, such as fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and vomiting.

If you are concerned about your risk of dengue, you should talk to your doctor. They can help you assess your individual risk and take steps to prevent infection.

The best way to prevent Zika infection is to avoid mosquito bites, as the virus is primarily transmitted through infected mosquitoes. Here are some key prevention strategies:

Protection from mosquito bites:

• Use insect repellent: Choose an EPA-registered repellent containing DEET (20-30% recommended), picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Apply according to product instructions, paying attention to exposed skin and clothing.
• Wear protective clothing: Cover your arms and legs with long, loose-fitting clothing made from tightly woven fabric.
• Stay in screened-in areas: Use screened doors and windows, or sleep under a mosquito net when possible.
• Reduce mosquito breeding grounds: Eliminate standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed, such as in flowerpots, gutters, and old tires.