Florida Zika Virus Cases Rise To 220

The total number of confirmed travel-related Zika virus cases in Florida rose to 220 on Friday with seven new cases reported by state officials. One of the new cases involves a Polk County resident.

The six other new cases involve two people in Miami-Dade County, and one each in Broward, Citrus, Duval and Seminole counties, according to the Florida Department of Health. A total of 40 pregnant women statewide have also been affected by the virus.

All of the state’s cases to date remain travel-related, state officials say. The state leads the nation in the number of confirmed cases.

The CDC has confirmed that the virus is responsible for causing severe defects in unborn children, including microcephaly, which leaves babies with abnormally small heads and often with brains that do not develop properly.

Zika is a mosquito-borne illness that is characterized by a fever, rash and joint pain. While the illness typically resolves within a week, some severe cases may require hospitalization.

Aside from mosquitoes, Zika can be spread through sexual contact in some cases, the CDC notes. One of the confirmed cases in Polk County originated through sexual contact, the state of Florida reported. The patient in the case contracted the virus while traveling outside of the country.

As of Friday, 17 of the 220 people in Florida confirmed to have the Zika virus were still exhibiting symptoms, according to the state’s daily update report. Symptoms generally last for seven to 10 days, according to the CDC.

See also:

• Zika Virus: ‘We Can’t Protect Women and Children,’ CDC Chief Says

In the Tampa Bay area, a number of counties have witnessed confirmed Zika virus cases. So far, Pinellas has six cases, Hillsborough five, Polk four and Pasco two. No cases have been confirmed in Sarasota or Manatee counties.

The state warns that mosquitoes can breed in as little as a teaspoon or bottle cap of water.

“So, one of the most effective control measures for mosquitoes is draining all sources of standing water around your home or business at least weekly,” Department of Health spokeswoman Mara Gambineri said. “This includes garbage cans, house gutters, pool covers, flower pots, toys and anywhere rain or sparkler water has collected.”

The state also recommends residents throw out old tires, drums and other items on their properties that can hold water. Bird baths should be emptied at least once or twice a week, and so should pet water bowls. Broken screens should also be repaired.

“If you must be outside when mosquitoes are active, cover up your skin by wearing long pants, long sleeves, shoes and socks,” Gambineri said. “Residents should also apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.” The state recommends repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus and IR3535, among others.

“Always follow the instructions on the label when using repellents,” Gambineri reminded. “Parents should make sure to protect kids as they head outdoors to play this summer by covering their skin with long clothing and using a suitable repellent.”

To help residents resolve questions about the virus and its spread, the state has set up a Zika Virus Information Hotline at 1-855-622-6735. The hotline has fielded more than 2,132 calls since it was launched Feb. 12, the state reported.

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