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“We have one documented case, and now maybe a second one in Dallas of sexual transmission but that’s very, very rare, but if there’s an exchange of blood or bodily fluids there is that potential for a spread,” says Dr. Catherine Troisi of the UT Health School of Public Health .

Media report cites a suspect case of sexual transmission of Zika in Dallas. http://cw39.com/2016/02/03/the-bloody-truth-about-zika-virus/

Zika virus case confirmed in Georgia By: Annalee Penny POSTED:FEB 03 2016 03:23PM EST UPDATED:FEB 03 2016 04:52PM EST ATLANTA - The Georgia Department of Public Health confirms the first travel-related case of Zika virus in Georgia. The woman traveled to Columbia between December and the first of January. She was not pregnant and has made a full recovery. Tests are being run on specimens from other people living in Georgia who have traveled to places where there are outbreaks of Zika virus. Sponsored Links 9 Myths About Office 365 in the Cloud for Business(eBook)Microsoft 7 Reasons to Get Your Next Pair of Glasses OnlineGlassesUSA.com Florida Governor Rick Scott has declared a health emergency in four counties due to Zika virus. This covers Miami-Dade, Lee, Hillsborough, and Santa Rosa counties. Zika virus is primarily spread to people via mosquito bites. However, reports have been confirmed of Zika being sexually transmitted in Texas. The most common symptoms include fever, rash, joint paint, and red eyes. Mild symptoms usually last several days to a week. Typically, hospitalization is uncommon and most people infected with Zika never realize they are sick. There is currently no vaccine or medicine that will prevent or treat Zika. Travelers should check CDC travel advisories for their destinations and take precautions to protect themselves from mosquitos: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pantsUse EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), or IR3535 (use as directed)Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents)Stay and sleep in screened-in or air-conditioned roomsThe U.N. health agency convened an emergency meeting of independent experts in Geneva to assess the outbreak after noting a suspicious link between Zika's arrival in Brazil last year and a surge in the number of babies born with abnormally small heads. "After a review of the evidence, the committee advised that the clusters of microcephaly and other neurological complications constitute an extraordinary event and public health threat to other parts of the world," WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said. WHO estimates there could be up to 4 million cases of Zika in the Americas in the next year, but no recommendations were made to restrict travel or trade. "It is important to understand, there are several measures pregnant women can take," Chan said. "If you can delay travel and it does not affect your other family commitments, it is something they can consider. http://www.fox5atlanta.com/local-news/84253975-story

Zika virus is now in Georgia 4:04 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016 | Filed in: News  STORY HIGHLIGHTS The unidentified person traveled to Colombia between the end of December and January. The Zika virus has made its way to Georgia. The Georgia Department of Health confirmed today the first travel-related case of the Zika virus in the state. A sample from the infected person was tested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and was positive for the virus. The Georgia case involves a person who was not pregnant and had traveled to Colombia from late December through early January. It’s unclear how the Georgia traveler got the virus, whether through a mosquito bite or some other mode of transmission. The person made a full recovery, according the state Department of Health, which did not immediately disclose further details about the case. John Brook, medical epidemiologist works the phone at his Zika station in the emergency operations center on Wednesday. JOHN SPINK /[email protected] Zika virus, which is found in the Pacific Islands and in parts of Africa, has become a health crisis in several South and Central American countries and some Caribbean islands. Since last year, the virus has exploded in Brazil and is believed to be the cause of birth defects in hundreds of newborns in that nation. Microcephaly, a condition marked by an usually small head in infants has been the most common defect since the outbreak began. To date, 31 cases of the Zika virus have been confirmed in the United States spread across 12 states. All have been related to travel. “This is a whole new ballgame,” Dr. Lyle Petersen, director of the Division of Vector Borne Diseases at the CDC told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Wednesday. “We have more questions than answers.” Beth Schweitzer, executive assistant to the incident manager (left) works calls in the emergency operations center on Wednesday. JOHN SPINK /[email protected] Texas, a man who’d traveled to Venezuela apparently infected his sexual partner with the virus on his return to the U.S., the CDC confirmed this week. That potentially opens up a new route of transmission. Four out of five people who contract the virus get it through mosquito bites from two different types of the insect, which are commonly found in the Southern United States. About four out of five people get the Zika virus and have no symptoms. The most common symptoms are joint pain, fever and rash. Pregnant women or those who think they are pregnant are advised by the CDC not to travel to countries that are experiencing an outbreak of the disease. For a list of countries visithttp://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/zika-travel-information. http://www.ajc.com/news/news/breaking-news/first-zika-case-confirmed-in-georgia/nqJLM/

Map update https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&hl=en&authuser=0&authuser=0&mid=zv94AJqgUct4.kT4qLMXp3SLU

First Travel-Related Zika Case Confirmed In GeorgiaFebruary 3, 2016Nancy Nydam ATLANTA – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is confirming the first travel-related case of Zika virus in Georgia. Testing was done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The non-pregnant individual traveled to Colombia between the end of December and the first of January and has made a full recovery. Tests are still being done on specimens from several other Georgia residents with travel history to areas where Zika virus outbreaks are ongoing. “It is extremely important that individuals who have traveled to countries where there are on-going Zika virus outbreaks keep guard against additional mosquito bites,” said Cherie Drenzek, D.V.M, state epidemiologist for DPH. “During the first week or so of infection, Zika virus can be passed from an infected person to another mosquito through mosquito bites. An infected mosquito can then transmit the virus to other people.” DPH cautions travelers, especially women who are pregnant, headed to countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing: Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Suriname, Venezuela, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, among others. The complete list of Zika affected countries can be found athttp://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/zika-travel-information. There are urgent concerns about Zika virus infection and pregnant women. Zika virus infections have been confirmed in infants with microcephaly and in the current outbreak in Brazil, a marked increase in the number of infants born with microcephaly has been reported. Pregnant women or women trying to get pregnant should not travel to areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. Pregnant women who have traveled to these areas should consult their physician immediately. Health care providers should ask all pregnant women about recent travel. Zika virus is primarily spread to people through mosquito bites. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week. Severe disease requiring hospitalization is uncommon. Most people infected with Zika virus never know they are sick. Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat Zika. Travelers should check CDC travel advisories for their destinations and take precautions to protect themselves from mosquitos: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pantsUse EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), or IR3535 (use as directed)Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents)Stay and sleep in screened-in or air-conditioned roomsThe number of Zika cases among travelers visiting or returning to the United States will likely increase. These imported cases could result in local spread of the virus in some areas of the country, including Georgia. For more information about Zika virus and current travel advisories, visitdph.georgia.gov or cdc.gov/zika.

http://dph.georgia.gov/press-releases/2016-02-03/first-travel-related-zika-case-confirmed-georgia

DALLAS COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES EPIDEMIOLOGY Zachary Thompson Dr. Christopher Perkins Director Health Authority/Medical Director 2377 N. Stemmons Freeway Office: 214-819-2004 Dallas, Texas 75207 Fax: 214-819-1933 From: Jessica Smith, MPH, Senait Woldai, MPH Wendy Chung, MD, Chief Epidemiologist To: Dallas County Medical Providers Date: February 2, 2016 HEALTH ADVISORY: Sexual Transmission of Zika Virus Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) has received confirmation from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that Zika virus infection has been confirmed in two persons residing in Dallas County. One patient developed illness symptoms after returning from a country in South America with active Zika transmission. The second patient had not recently traveled outside of the U.S., but subsequently developed illness symptoms after sexual contact with the traveler. There was no risk to a developing fetus with these cases; both patients have recovered fully from their illnesses. Symptoms occur in 1 in 5 persons infected with Zika virus and include fever, conjunctivitis, rash, and/or arthralgia.1 The illness is typically mild and resolves within one week. However, Zika infection in pregnant women may be associated with congenital microcephaly and fetal losses. Guillain-Barre syndrome has also been reported in patients after suspected Zika infection. Zika virus is transmitted to persons primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. Recent temperatures in our area were not conducive to Aedes mosquito activity, although such mosquitoes are usually present in our area during the warmer late-spring and summer months. Vector surveillance has also confirmed the absence of this species in vicinity BG mosquito traps at this time. Probable spread of the virus through sexual contact has been described in one prior case report. Maternal-fetal transmission of Zika virus has been documented in pregnancy and possible transfusion transmission events have also been reported. Clinicians should consider Zika virus infection in patients (including pregnant women2 ) with 2 or more compatible symptoms (e.g., fever, rash, conjunctivitis or joint pain) within 2 weeks of travel to an area with autochthonous Zika virus transmission. 3 In addition, Zika infection should be considered in patients with compatible clinical syndrome but without travel history, who report recent unprotected sexual contact (within the previous 2 weeks) with a person with a compatible history of illness and history of travel. The current outbreak of Zika virus in the Americas is unprecedented in magnitude, and clinical guidance is anticipated to evolve as more information rapidly accrues. At this time, all area clinicians should refer to most updated information available at (http://www.cdc.gov/zika/) and be aware of the following: Current DCHHS Testing Guidance: Currently, all PCR and serologic testing for Zika virus in Texas is being referred to CDC. The DCHHS laboratory is anticipated to gain capacity to conduct PCR testing for Zika virus beginning in midFebruary. To discuss testing, clinicians should contact the DCHHS Epidemiology division at 214-819-2004 or 214-677-7899 (on-call 24/7) and complete the required DCHHS Zika Virus Clinical Specimen Submission Form. 4 Instructions for specimen submission to DCHHS are available at: DCHHS Submission Instructions for Zika Virus Testing. 5 Patients MUST meet the following epidemiologic criteria BEFORE a specimen can be sent to DCHHS: 1. Any patient (including pregnant women2 ) with 2 or more symptoms compatible with Zika virus infection (e.g., fever, rash, joint pain, or conjunctivitis) within 2 weeks of travel to an area with Zika virus transmission. 3 2. Any patient with symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) within 1 month of travel to an area with Zika virus transmission. 3. Infants born to women with positive or inconclusive test results for Zika infection.6 4. Infants with microcephaly or intracranial calcifications born to women who have traveled to an area with Zika virus transmission while pregnant.6 5. Patients with compatible illness who do not meet above testing criteria, but for whom there may be concern for alternate (e.g. sexual, non-perinatal) modes of transmission, 7 should be discussed with DCHHS Epidemiology division for case-by-case evaluation and determination of approval for testing. CDC recommends that diagnostic testing for dengue and chikungunya also be considered in patients with possible Zika virus infection who have traveled within the previous 2 weeks to an area with ongoing transmission.8 Testing for dengue and chikungunya is available from commercial laboratories. Patient Counseling: • All persons should take steps to avoid mosquito bites to prevent mosquito-borne diseases. • Patients with suspected infection with Zika virus should be advised to avoid mosquito bites for 7 days following illness onset. • Fever should be treated with acetaminophen; aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be avoided until dengue can be ruled out to reduce the risk of hemorrhage. • Pregnant women should defer travel to areas with Zika virus transmission. For interim guidelines for pregnant women, providers should refer to most updated CDC and ACOG/SMFM websites. • Although more specific guidance is expected to be available as additional information becomes known, given the current evidence for potential sexual transmission, persons who have traveled to areas with active Zika transmission may consider using condoms during sexual activity, particularly if their partner is pregnant. Public Health Notification: Healthcare providers in Dallas County who identify persons with possible infection with Zika virus are requested to report such cases to DCHHS by phone within 1 working day at (214) 819-2004. ____________________________________________________________________________________ 1. CDC Health Advisory. Recognizing, Managing, and Reporting Zika Virus Infections in Travelers Returning from Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and Mexico (1/15/16): http://emergency.cdc.gov/han/han00385.asp 2. CDC. Interim Guidance for Pregnant Women During a Zika Virus Outbreak — United States, 2016 (1/19/2016): http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/65/wr/mm6502e1.htm 3. CDC. Areas with Zika Transmission (2/1/16): http://www.cdc.gov/zika/geo/index.html 4. DCHHS Zika Virus Specimen Submission Form (2/1/16): http://www.dallascounty.org/department/hhs/documents/DCHHS_Zika_SubmissionForm_020116.pdf 5. DCHHS Submission Instructions for Zika Virus Testing (2/1/16): http://www.dallascounty.org/department/hhs/documents/DCHHS_Zika_SubmissionGuidance_020116_Interim.pdf 6. CDC. Interim Guidelines for the Evaluation and Testing of Infants with Possible Congenital Zika Virus Infection — United States, 2016 (1/26/16): http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/65/wr/mm6503e3.htm 7. CDC COCA Call. Zika Virus — What Clinicians Need to Know (1/26/16): http://emergency.cdc.gov/coca/calls/2016/callinfo_012616.asp 8. CDC Memorandum. Updated diagnostic testing for Zika, chikungunya, and dengue

http://www.dallascounty.org/department/hhs/documents/DCHHS_Zika_HealthAdvisory_20160202_final.pdf

Gov.Scott declares health emergency over Zika virus6 new travel-related cases of Zika reported in Florida this week Posted: 2:14 PM, February 03, 2016Updated: 4:14 PM, February 03, 201627 Twitter 27TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Gov. Rick Scott ordered a public health emergency in four Florida counties after six additional cases of the Zika virus were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Florida Department of Health announced the new travel-related cases in a news release Tuesday. All of the cases were believed to be contracted outside of the state. More Health HeadlinesZika virus can be transmitted sexually, CDC saysWHO leader: Zika virus 'spreading explosively'Five things you need to know about ZikaZika fears spread across FloridaFlorida has reported a total of nine travel-associated cases to the federal government, including four cases in Miami-Dade County, two cases in Hillsborough, two cases in Lee and one case in Santa Rosa. None of the cases involve pregnant women. Zika fever illness is generally mild with a rash, fever and joint pain. CDC researchers are examining a possible link between the virus and unborn babies exposed during pregnancy. Scott's executive order declares health emergency in the four counties where Zika patients have been identified. “Although Florida’s current nine Zika cases were travel-related, we have to ensure Florida is prepared and stays ahead of the spread of the Zika virus in our state," Scott said in a statement. "Our Department of Health will continue to be in constant communication with all county health offices, hospitals and the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We know that we must be prepared for the worst even as we hope for the best.” The executive owner also authorizes the Commissioner of Agriculture to issue a mosquito declaration in Miami-Dade, Hillsborough, Lee and Santa Rosa Counties and says that special attention for mosquito sprays shall be paid to residential areas. It also directs the Florida Department of Health to make its own determinations as to further resources and information needed in the State from the CDC to combat the spread of Zika and other measures that may need to be taken to protect public health. http://www.news4jax.com/health/6-new-cases-of-zika-reported-in-florida

Florida Declares Emergency Over Zika VirusFlorida Governor Rick Scott says he wants his state "prepared for the worst" after nine cases of the virus are confirmed. 20:56, UK,Wednesday 03 February 2016 The Zika virus is primarily spread though mosquitos Share on TwitterShare on FacebookShare on Google+Share by emailBy Sky News US Team The governor of Florida has declared a health emergency in four counties due to the Zika virus. At least nine cases of the mosquito-bourne illness have been detected in Florida. Health officials believe that all of the cases are from people who contracted the virus while travelling to affected countries. Governor Rick Scott signed an emergency order on Wednesday, covering Miami-Dade, Lee, Hillsborough and Santa Rosa counties, where the cases of infection were detected. The order authorises the state's agriculture department to boost the use of mosquito spray in those counties, primarily in residential areas. Play video "Zika Virus Can Spread Through Sex" Video: Zika Virus Can Spread Through Sex"Although Florida's current nine Zika cases were travel-related, we have to ensure Florida is prepared and stays ahead of the spread of the Zika virus in our state," Gov Scott said in a statement. The move comes a day after health officials in Texas announced that a Zika patient in Dallas acquired the virus through sexual contact - raising fresh fears about the disease, which has been linked to birth defects. Meanwhile, health officials in Florida's neighbouring state of Georgia confirmed its first Zika case on Wednesday. That individual contracted the disease after travelling to Columbia in January, and has since made a full recovery, officials said. :: Zika Virus: Will It Spread And Can We Stop It? US health officials said last week that 31 people in the US have been diagnosed with Zika in the past year. All of the infections are thought to have originated through travel to Latin America. Play video "What Is The Zika Virus?" Video: What Is The Zika Virus?The World Health Organization (WHO) warned last week the virus is "spreading explosively" in the Americas. The group also warned people in Europe to prepare now for the potential spread of the virus during the spring and summer as temperatures rise. Zika, which is considered to be primarily spread by mosquitoes, has been linked to a steep increase in the number of babies born with microcephaly, which causes abnormally small heads and brains. Cases have so far been reported in 36 countries and territories, with Brazil among the worst affected. Health officials have advised pregnant women to avoid travel to affected areas. More follows... http://news.sky.com/story/1635477/florida-declares-emergency-over-zika-virus

Florida declares health emergency over Zika cases Resize Text Print Article Comments 0 Book mark article Read later list Saved to Reading List By Ariana Eunjung Cha February 3 at 4:03 PM Florida officials declared a public health emergency in four counties with confirmed Zika virus cases, underscoring the increasing concern in the United States. Gov. Rick Scott (R) said nine cases had been confirmed in Miami-Dade, Hillsborough, Lee and Santa Rosa counties and all appear to be "travel-associated." That means that officials believe the patients likely contracted the virus outside the state and most likely outside the country in one of the regions where the virus is spreading. "We know that we must be prepared for the worst even as we hope for the best," Scott said in a statement. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has been reassuring Americans for days now that none of the cases seen so far have been due to mosquitoes that have made their way to the United States and that therefore Zika is not a major threat to public, yet. Scott appeared to acknowledge this in his executive order, but he also said that he was taking this action to "ensure Florida is prepared and stays ahead of the spread of Zika virus in our state." Scott's directive gives the Health Department additional power in coordinating a response to Zika and directs the state's environmental unit to cooperate with the Agricultural Department in coming with a mosquito control plan. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/to-your-health/wp/2016/02/03/florida-declares-health-emergency-over-zika-cases/?tid=twisira

Gov. Rick Scott declares Zika emergency in 4 countiesAssociated Press Privacy Policy TAMPA — Gov. Rick Scott has declared a health emergency in four counties due to the Zika virus. At least nine cases of the mosquito-borne illness have been detected in Florida. Health officials believe all of the cases are from people who contracted the disease while traveling to affected countries. Scott signed the order Wednesday to cover Miami-Dade, Lee, Hillsborough and Santa Rosa counties. The Zika virus is linked to brain deformities in babies and is causing concern among public health officials worldwide. The virus is primarily spread through mosquito bites, but investigators had been exploring the possibility it could be sexually transmitted. U.S. health officials say a person in Texas became infected with Zika through sex, in the first case of the illness being transmitted within the United States.

Scott signed the order Wednesday to cover Miami-Dade, Lee, Hillsborough and Santa Rosa counties. http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/os-florida-zika-virus-20160203-story.html?utm_content=buffere5afb&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer

Suman 37 cases of Zika virus in MexicoFebruary 3, 2016 Of the 37 cases in Mexico, 34 are native and three imported /. Photo: AP Of the 37 cases of Zika virus registered in the national territory, 34 are native and three are imported; most of them are recorded in the south Health Secretary, Mercedes Juan Lopez, said Wednesday that now total 37 confirmed cases of the virus in Mexico, of which 34 occurred in the country. He explained that of indigenous cases, 24 occurred in Chiapa s; four Nuevo Leon ; four in Oaxaca; one in Jalisco and one in . Sinaloa Meanwhile, in the state of Queretaro it was recorded one of the imported cases and two were in Tamaulipas. Mercedes Juan noted that the secretariat that she commands, reinforces preventive measures to combat the breeding of Aedes mosquito, which transmits the virus Zika, dengue and chikungunya. He added that preventive measures are focused on the pregnant women , so that all gynecologists in the country will be trained to make adequate prenatal care. The Zika virus is widely suspected of being related to microcephaly epidemic affecting several countries in Latin America, especially Brazil. - See more at: http://amqueretaro.com/el-pais/mexico/2016/02/03/suman-37-casos-de-virus-zika-en-mexico#sthash.F7xYLppg.dpuf

Health Ministry reiterates 37 cases of Zika in MexicoThe office reported cases occur in the southeastern region of the country By: Rasa Chain | February 3, 2016 | 13:35 hours The Health Ministry reiterated the recommendations to avoid infection (Photo: buenoysaludable.com) Mexico (Rasainforma.com) .- In Mexico last month from November 2015 to date have confirmed 34 indigenous cases and three imported a total of 37 cases of Zika virus, figures were confirmed by the Ministry of Health Mercedes Juan Lopez, through a press conference. The cases are mostly reported in the state of Chiapas, with 24 people, while the other cases were detected located in Nuevo Leon and Oaxaca, with four people, respectively, and Jalisco and Sinaloa, with one case each. The Secretariat Health, also explained that has the report of three imported cases in Queretaro and Tamaulipas, that is, who were infected abroad, so will strengthen prevention protocols, mainly to pregnant women because of reports associating Zika with the development of microcephaly in fetuses, the head of the agency said.http://rasainforma.com/noticias/salud/se-incrementan-a-84-casos-de-zika-en-mexico-/154499/ Meanwhile Cuitlahuac Ruiz Matus, CEO of Epidemiology, said there is not enough scientific evidence to prove that the Zika now can be transmitted by sexual contact, as recorded health services in Dallas County, Texas, who received the confirmation of a case of this kind, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Ruiz added that "the only evidence of that fact is that there is no presence of the mosquito that transmits the virus Zika in the Texas area, so the spread attributed to sexual contact." The Health Ministry reiterated the recommendations to avoid infection, so far and according to their reports, remains on the mosquito bite. Among them, the most important are: Use long-sleeved pants and repellent.Wash the containers in which water and keep tápalosTurn buckets and bottles, and strip what you do not serve and can accumulate water.Keep doors and windows closed, place mosquito nets and sleeping pavilions used.Promote basic sanitation measures (LAVA, TAPA, TURN AND STRIP).In addition to these recommendations, pregnant women should go to their prenatal checkups and, if you have symptoms suggestive of the disease, go immediately to your health unit. Mexico reaffirms its commitment to work as an actor with global responsibility, jointly with the World Health Organization and health authorities globally to continue sharing timely notification and rapid exchange of relevant information through schemes set for that end.

The Health Ministry reported 37 cases in the country zikaDependence explains that 34 infected in Mexico and three abroad; dismissed for lack of evidence that transmission is through sexual contact. Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 14:16 LinkedIn 0 Share 33 E-mail TextThe Health Ministry says that the only infection is through the bite of the mosquito. (Photo: EFE)related articlesThe anguish of being pregnant and getting zikaThe zika extends to more countries in Latin AmericaEU confirms first spread of sexually zikaZika forest in Uganda, birthplace of virusCorrectionThe Health Secretary Juan Mercedes said earlier at a press conference that 84 cases were Zika. However, in a statement the agency reported later that they are 37.MEXICO CITY (CNNExpansión) - The Health Ministry announced Wednesday that the country has so far registered 37 cases of infection with the virus Zika. "In Mexico November 2015 to date have confirmed 34 cases and three imported indigenous" according to a statement from the agency. Given the contagion, the Health Ministry strengthen prevention protocols, mainly to pregnant women because of reports associating zika with microcephaly development in fetuses, said Juan Mercedes press conference Wednesday. Lee: EU confirms first spread of sexually zika Cuitlahuac Ruiz, CEO of Epidemiology, said there is not enough scientific evidence to prove that the zika now can be transmitted by sexual contact, as recorded health services in Dallas County, Texas, who received confirmation of a case this, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Ruiz added that the only evidence of that fact is that there is no presence of the mosquito that transmits the virus Zika in the Texas area, so the spread attributed to sexual contact. The Health Ministry reiterated the recommendations to avoid infection, so far and according to their reports, remains on the mosquito bite.

Confirmed Zike cases in Mexico increase to 37 http://www.cnnexpansion.com/economia/2016/02/03/se-eleva-a-84-casos-de-contagio-de-zika-en-mexico-salud

tototo February 2, 2016Health Ministry confirms three imported cases of Zika virus infectionSantiago, 02 February 2016.- The Ministry of Health confirmed the existence of three cases imported by Zika virus. This is a man of 28 who traveled to Colombia; another of the same age who visited Venezuela and one of 35 who was in Brazil. This was announced by Health Minister (s), Gisela Alarcon, and Undersecretary of Public Health (s), Bernardo Martorell, noting that the existence of imported cases in Chile Continental presents no risk of spreading the disease. "Despite this confirmation of cases, this does not pose a risk to the health of the population, as in Chile Continental there is no presence of the mosquito that transmits the disease," said the deputy minister. He added that, as pointed out by the Ministry of Health, "to the extent that there is great movement of people in the affected areas, it is possible that new cases arise imported into the country." About the protocols adopted, the authority said no change given indications. "In the case of Easter Island, the only place in Chile where the vector that causes the disease is present, we are delivering information repellent and all measures to protect those who visit the place," he said Secretary (s) Public health. Additional constantly it is working with local authorities in implementing the system of epidemiological surveillance and vector control. To complement this work, a work team composed of Governor of the Region of Valparaiso, Gabriel Aldoney, professionals from the Health Authority and Health Service East you will move tomorrow. Recall that the Minister of Health, Carmen Castillo, is in Uruguay and this afternoon held a meeting with his counterpart, Jorge Basso. Tomorrow, together with the Ministers of Health of MERCOSUR, coordinate regional actions against the Zika virus. Recommendations for the populationThe World Health Organization declared the disease Zika "Public Health Emergency of International Importance" virus. The main preventive measure is to control and prevent the insect sting. Therefore, it is important prior to a trip to tropical or subtropical information, if there is the presence of the mosquito Aedes or if there have been cases of diseases such as dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya or Zika virus. If so, we recommend taking the following measures: - Wear light-colored clothing that covers most of the body; - Avoid sun exposure during the period of greatest mosquito activity, that is during the early hours of the morning and evening, or caution; - Use repellents the exposed areas (30 percent active ingredient DEET or picaridin), according to product instructions; - Use air conditioning or mosquito netting when sleeping. Failing that, keep windows and doors with screens to prevent mosquito access. Recommendations for pregnant women:According to WHO recommendations, pregnant women should avoid unnecessary travel to areas of Zika virus circulation. In case of an urgent travel to areas with Zika virus circulation it is recommended: - Consult your doctor about the risks; - Practice good environmental and individual prevention, to avoid being bitten by Aedes mosquitoes. There is no evidence of restriction of use of repellents on pregnant; however, they should be used as directed by the product. If it comes from an affected country and have any of the disease symptoms (fever, red spots on the skin and muscle pain), the recommendation is to call the Health Responds 600 360 7777 or go to a hospital. More information: www.minsal.cl/virus-zika http://web.minsal.cl/ministerio-de-salud-confirma-3-casos-importados-de-infeccion-por-virus-zika/

Zika Virus – Feb. 3, 2016Texas has 10 cases of Zika virus disease. Nine are travelers who were infected abroad and diagnosed after they returned home. One case involves a Dallas County resident who had sexual contact with someone who acquired the Zika infection while traveling abroad. Case counts by county: Harris County – 7 Bexar County – 1 Dallas County – 2 Zika is primarily a mosquito-borne virus that can cause fever, rash, muscle and joint aches and pinkeye. Symptoms are usually mild, and most people exposed to Zika virus won’t develop any symptoms at all. There have been reports of microcephaly and other poor pregnancy outcomes in babies of mothers who were infected with Zika virus while pregnant. The Texas Department of State Health Services is encouraging people to follow travel precautions for regions and certain countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. DSHS recommends travelers avoid mosquito bites while abroad and for seven days after returning, in case they have been exposed to Zika virus. People can protect themselves from mosquito bites by: Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pantsUsing EPA-registered insect repellentsUsing permethrin-treated clothing and gear Staying and sleeping in screened-in or air-conditioned roomsAvoiding or limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito timesNote: Zika case data for Texas will be updated weekdays by 11 a.m. Texas Zika Virus DSHS News Releases CDC Zika Virus http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/news/updates.shtm

Zika Virus – Feb. 3, 2016Texas has 10 cases of Zika virus disease. Nine are travelers who were infected abroad and diagnosed after they returned home. One case involves a Dallas County resident who had sexual contact with someone who acquired the Zika infection while traveling abroad. Case counts by county: Harris County – 7 Bexar County – 1 Dallas County – 2 Zika is primarily a mosquito-borne virus that can cause fever, rash, muscle and joint aches and pinkeye. Symptoms are usually mild, and most people exposed to Zika virus won’t develop any symptoms at all. There have been reports of microcephaly and other poor pregnancy outcomes in babies of mothers who were infected with Zika virus while pregnant. The Texas Department of State Health Services is encouraging people to follow travel precautions for regions and certain countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. DSHS recommends travelers avoid mosquito bites while abroad and for seven days after returning, in case they have been exposed to Zika virus. People can protect themselves from mosquito bites by: Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pantsUsing EPA-registered insect repellentsUsing permethrin-treated clothing and gear Staying and sleeping in screened-in or air-conditioned roomsAvoiding or limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito timesNote: Zika case data for Texas will be updated weekdays by 11 a.m. Texas Zika Virus DSHS News Releases CDC Zika Virus http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/news/updates.shtm

Zika Virus – Feb. 3, 2016Texas has 10 cases of Zika virus disease. Nine are travelers who were infected abroad and diagnosed after they returned home. One case involves a Dallas County resident who had sexual contact with someone who acquired the Zika infection while traveling abroad. Case counts by county: Harris County – 7 Bexar County – 1 Dallas County – 2 Zika is primarily a mosquito-borne virus that can cause fever, rash, muscle and joint aches and pinkeye. Symptoms are usually mild, and most people exposed to Zika virus won’t develop any symptoms at all. There have been reports of microcephaly and other poor pregnancy outcomes in babies of mothers who were infected with Zika virus while pregnant. The Texas Department of State Health Services is encouraging people to follow travel precautions for regions and certain countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. DSHS recommends travelers avoid mosquito bites while abroad and for seven days after returning, in case they have been exposed to Zika virus. People can protect themselves from mosquito bites by: Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pantsUsing EPA-registered insect repellentsUsing permethrin-treated clothing and gear Staying and sleeping in screened-in or air-conditioned roomsAvoiding or limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito timesNote: Zika case data for Texas will be updated weekdays by 11 a.m. Texas Zika Virus DSHS News Releases CDC Zika Virus http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/news/updates.shtm

Zika Virus – Feb. 3, 2016Texas has 10 cases of Zika virus disease. Nine are travelers who were infected abroad and diagnosed after they returned home. One case involves a Dallas County resident who had sexual contact with someone who acquired the Zika infection while traveling abroad. Case counts by county: Harris County – 7 Bexar County – 1 Dallas County – 2 Zika is primarily a mosquito-borne virus that can cause fever, rash, muscle and joint aches and pinkeye. Symptoms are usually mild, and most people exposed to Zika virus won’t develop any symptoms at all. There have been reports of microcephaly and other poor pregnancy outcomes in babies of mothers who were infected with Zika virus while pregnant. The Texas Department of State Health Services is encouraging people to follow travel precautions for regions and certain countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. DSHS recommends travelers avoid mosquito bites while abroad and for seven days after returning, in case they have been exposed to Zika virus. People can protect themselves from mosquito bites by: Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pantsUsing EPA-registered insect repellentsUsing permethrin-treated clothing and gear Staying and sleeping in screened-in or air-conditioned roomsAvoiding or limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito timesNote: Zika case data for Texas will be updated weekdays by 11 a.m. Texas Zika Virus DSHS News Releases CDC Zika Virus http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/news/updates.shtm

http://www.health.pa.gov/My Health/Diseases and Conditions/U-Z/Pages/Zika.aspx#.VrIzGrIrKds

HEALTH NEWS FEBRUARY 3, 2016 7:05 AM Six new travel-related cases of Zika confirmed in Florida FILE - In this Jan. 27, 2016, file photo, an Aedes aegypti mosquito is photographed through a microscope at the Fiocruz institute in Recife, Pernambuco state, Brazil. The mosquito behind the Zika virus seems to operate like a heat-driven missile of disease. Scientists say the hotter it gets, the better the mosquito that carries Zika virus is at transmitting a variety of dangerous illnesses. Felipe Dana, File AP PhotoBY DEBORA LIMAThe Miami Herald LINKEDINGOOGLE+PINTERESTREDDITPRINTORDER REPRINT OF THIS STORY The Florida Department of Health confirmed six new cases of the mosquito-borne Zika virus on Tuesday afternoon, bringing the statewide total to nine, including four in Miami-Dade County. All nine cases have been contracted by people who've traveled to Latin America and the Caribbean and brought the disease back to Florida. Three cases were contracted in Haiti, three of them in Venezuela, two in Colombia, and one in El Salvador, according to Mara Gambineri, communications director for the Florida Department of Health. Gambineri did not offer additional information regarding the cases. "While the CDC has not identified Florida as an area of local Zika risk, the Florida Department of Health is closely monitoring imported disease," the release said. None of the cases involves pregnant women, who have been deemed particularly vulnerable to Zika because the virus has been linked to a condition called microcephaly, a rare birth defect that may cause babies to be born with smaller brains. In Brazil, where the disease was first detected last October, the number of suspected microcephaly cases has climbed to nearly 4,000. In Florida, the other confirmed cases involve residents from Hillsborough County, where Tampa is located (two cases); Lee County, home of Fort Myers (two cases); and Santa Rosa County in the Panhandle, near Pensacola (one case). Zika cannot be transmitted by routine human contact. Rather, it is transmitted when an infested mosquito bites a human, and then another mosquito bites the infected person. The mosquito that carries the virus, Aedes aegypti, is common in South Florida. It's the same mosquito that has brought dengue fever and chikungunya here. The disease also can be transmitted through unprotected sexual contact. Texas health officials confirmed Tuesday that a Dallas County resident contracted Zika after having sex with someone who was ill and had recently traveled to Venezuela. This is the second time the disease has been sexually transmitted in the United States. In 2008, a Colorado researcher caught the virus overseas and unknowingly spread it to his wife. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it will address sexually transmitted incidences of the virus in coming days. Sexual partners can protect themselves by using condoms, health officials say. Follow Debora Lima on Twitter@dtdlima The Associated Press contributed to this report. ZIKA SYMPTOMS fever rash joint pain conjunctivitis (pink eye) However, a majority of Zika cases are asymptomatic, according to Dr. John Braden of Baptist Health. Read more here: http://www.bradenton.com/news/local/health-care/article58105793.html#storylink=cpyhttp://www.bradenton.com/news/local/health-care/article58105793.html