Zika virus transmission expands in Florida, USA

Since the transmission of the Zika virus in southern Florida began in July, 4 new cases of locally acquired transmission bring the total to 98 infected people. Counties that have reported at least 1 case include Palm Beach, Pinellas and Broward. The Miami-Dade county is reporting most of the cases (88).

Advice

The risk of exposure to this virus may be high in the most affected county. The risk of exposure for the general traveller in any particular location is difficult to estimate since so many infected people have no symptoms and are not recorded officially. There may be many infected people in the community.

There is no vaccine or specific treatment for this infection. Travellers can minimize the risk of exposure by taking all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

There is strong scientific evidence that this virus is the cause of microcephaly (small brain) and other neurological abnormalities in newborn infants. The World health Organization states that pregnant women should be advised not to travel to areas with Zika virus outbreaks. Pregnant women whose sexual partners live in or travel to areas with Zika virus outbreaks should ensure safe sexual practices or abstain from sex for the duration of their pregnancy,