Cases of Zika virus (ZIKV) have been reported from the island of Santiago. Areas affected include the capital, Praia, and the municipalities of
Santa Cruz and San Domingos. It is the first time locally-acquired cases of the virus have occurred in
Cape Verde. Zika virus belongs to a group of viruses called "flaviviruses", which also includes dengue and West Nile Virus. The disease spreads to humans via the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms include a rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eyes). No specific treatment or vaccine is available.