ZIKA virus has made its way to the US, with Aussie travellers being warned to take precautions against mosquito bites in southern Florida.

At least 14 cases of the mosquito-borne virus have been confirmed in Miami Dade and Broward counties.

In response, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has today updated its United States to include a warning about Zika transmission.

“We advise all travellers visiting Zika affected areas to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said the DFAT “smart traveller” advisory.

“Pregnant women should discuss any travel plans with their travel doctor and consider postponing travel to affected areas.”

A total of 48 countries are now listed by the Department of Health as having either ongoing and widespread transmission of Zika, or sporadic/limited transmission.

They include Brazil — which is about to host the Summer Olympics, Fiji, Mexico and Venezuela.

Aussie holiday favourites where sporadic or limited transmission is occurring include Indonesia, Vietnam, Samoa and Argentina.

The virus is mostly transmitted by mosquito but it can also be sexually transmitted for up to six months after infection.

Symptoms generally occur within three to 12 days of infection and include fever, muscle and joint pain, headache, conjunctivitis, a skin rash and fatigue.

Most worrying, is the link between Zika and birth defects such as the rare paralysing condition of Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

Doctors are unable to stay at what stage of pregnancy unborn children are most at risk, which is why pregnant women, or those hoping to fall pregnant are advised to avoid places where Zika transmission is occurring.

There is no vaccine for Zika virus so travellers are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites such as insect repellent, long sleeved shirts and pants and bed nets while sleeping.

Men who have travelled to countries with recent or current Zika outbreaks are urged always practice safe sex with pregnant partners for the duration of the pregnancy.

Blood tests can be conducted to determine Zika transmission.