2 more Floridians infected by Zika virus

18 people infected by mosquito-borne virus in Florida

MIAMI ā€“ Two more people have been infected by the Zika virus in Florida, including one more person in Miami-Dade County, Florida Surgeon General Dr. John Armstrong said Thursday.

The total number of Floridians infected by the mosquito-borne virus now stands at 18.

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Armstrong said all cases are travel-related and none involve pregnant women.

Although the virus has not been contracted locally, Armstrong urges Floridians to drain standing water weekly, no matter how little. He said just a couple of drops of water in a bottle cap can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

People are also urged to wear bug repellent when they are outdoors.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Zika virus typically causes a mild rash, fever and joint pain. Only one in five people infected with the virus are symptomatic.

CDC researchers are also investigating a possible link between the virus and harm to unborn babies during pregnancy after the Ministry of Health of Brazil reported an increase in the number of newborns with microcephaly in areas experiencing Zika virus outbreaks.

Below is a list of counties with patients who have contracted the Zika virus in other countries.

  • Broward County, 2 cases
  • Hillsborough County, 3 cases
  • Lee County, 3 cases
  • Miami-Dade County, 7 cases
  • Osceola County, 1 case
  • Santa Rosa County, 1 case
  • St. Johns County, 1 case

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About the Author:

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.