Global map of Zika Virus

The Americas are presently experiencing the most serious known
outbreak of Zika virus (ZIKV). Here, we present a novel set of analyses
using environmental characteristics, vector mosquito distributions, and
socioeconomic risk fac-tors to develop the first map to detail global
ZIKV transmission risk in multiple dimensions based on ecological niche
models. Our model predictions were tested against independent evaluation
data sets, and all models had predictive ability significantly better
than random expectations. The study addresses urgent knowledge gaps
regarding (1) the potential geographic scope of the current ZIKV
epidemic, (2) the global potential for spread of ZIKV, and (3) drivers
of ZIKV transmission. Our analysis of potential drivers of ZIKV
distributions globally identified areas vulnerable in terms of some
drivers, but not for others. The results of these analyses can guide
regional education and preparedness efforts, such that medical personnel
will be better prepared for diagnosis of potential ZIKV cases as they
appear.