The Zika virus, first identified in Uganda in 1947, is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, the same type of mosquito that carries dengue fever, yellow fever, and chikungunya virus.
MIAMI – Florida officials say they’re continuing aggressive efforts to stop the spread of the Zika virus.
Gov. Rick Scott met Monday with MiamiDade County officials to discuss Zika preparedness ahead of Florida’s rainy season, when mosquitoes are most prevalent.
Officials said fewer travel-related cases are being reported in Florida so far this year, compared with last spring.
Officials also said state labs and Miami-Dade mosquito control operations added staff since last year’s Zika outbreak. Counseling is also available for families affected by the virus that can cause severe brain-related birth defects.
Florida has reported two locally acquired Zika infections in 2017. Health officials said both patients likely contracted the virus last year in Miami-Dade County.
Zika mainly spreads by mosquito bites but it can also spread through sex.
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