January 19, 2026
FDA Precautions: Zika Virus and Egg Donation
The FDA issued temporary restrictions on egg donors who have traveled to 34 countries with active Zika transmission or had sexual contact with infected partners. The virus, linked to microcephaly in infants, remains transmissible for weeks through blood and semen. As of March 2016, 107 U.S. travel-associated cases were reported, but no local mosquito-borne transmission occurred.
Key Takeaways
Zika Transmission Risks via Sexual Contact and Blood Transfusions
The Zika virus can persist in semen longer than in blood, creating transmission risks even after mosquito-borne symptoms resolve. Sexual transmission accounts for 4% of U.S. cases, per CDC data, requiring donors to disclose recent sexual activity with potentially infected partners.
FDA’s 6-Month Deferral for Egg Donors After Zika Exposure
Donors must avoid travel to 34 designated regions or sexual contact with Zika-affected partners for six months prior to donation. This applies even if no symptoms occurred, due to the virus’s potential asymptomatic spread and long-term presence in bodily fluids.
Countries with Active Zika Transmission for Egg Donors
The FDA lists 34 high-risk locations including Brazil, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. Travelers to these areas face temporary ineligibility for egg donation programs, with restrictions lifted after a six-month waiting period to ensure viral clearance.
Post-6-Month Eligibility for Egg Donors After Zika Deferral
Donors who complete the six-month deferral period regain eligibility. Shady Grove Fertility emphasizes this temporary restriction is precautionary, as no cases of Zika transmission through female egg donation have been documented despite evidence in semen.
Egg Donation Process and Compensation at Shady Grove Fertility
The egg donation cycle spans up to four months with financial compensation provided. Prospective donors must avoid travel to Zika-affected regions for six months prior to application, with compensation offered throughout the entire process to support participants.
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