Florida Zika Virus Cases Near 170

TALLAHASSEE, FL — The number of confirmed Zika virus cases in the state of Florida climbed again Monday with one new travel-related case reported in Miami-Dade County. The new case brings the total number in the state to 166.

While Miami-Dade County leads the state with 51 confirmed cases, the Tampa Bay area has also experienced a number of cases. To date, there have been four confirmed cases in Pinellas County, three in Hillsborough, three in Polk and one in Pasco.

All Zika virus cases in the state of Florida are travel-related, the state’s department of health said. Out of the 166 confirmed cases, 38 involve pregnant women. Of those confirmed to have contracted the virus, only five people were still exhibiting symptoms as of Monday, the state reported.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 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.

While Florida’s cases to date have originated through foreign travel, the state urges residents and visitors to protect themselves from mosquitoes.

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,” Mara Gambineri, department of health spokeswoman, told Patch. “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 mosquitos 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 repellants,” 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 repellant.”

To help residents resolve questions about the virus and its spread, the state has set up a Zika Virus Information Hotline. That number is 1-855-622-6735. The hotline has fielded more than 1,963 calls since it was launched Feb. 12, the state reported.

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