2 New Zika Cases in Florida, Both Travel Related

with reporting by SHERRI LONON

TALLAHASEE, FL — Two new cases of Zika, one in Pasco County, have been confirmed in Florida — both linked to travel in areas in Central and South America where the mosquito-borne virus is transmitted.

With the new report, Pasco County has been added to the state's Public Health Emergency zone. Statewide, three residents with confirmed cases are still exhibiting symptoms. That's usually a 7-10 day window.

Of the 94 cases previously reported in Florida, the Tampa Bay area had a total of six confirmed cases – three in Hillsborough County and three in Polk.

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.

See Also:

• Zika Virus Causes Severe Brain Defects, CDC Confirms
• Zika Virus Confirmed In 3 Pregnant Floridians
• Zika Virus Information Floridians Need To Know

Zika is a mosquito-borne illness that is characterized by a fever, rash and joint pain. According to the state, only about one out of five people infected with Zika are symptomatic. 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.

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 1,550 calls since it was launched Feb. 12, the state reported.

Image via Shutterstock