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Zika Virus Infection in United States of America (Florida)

30 Jul 2016

On 29 July the Florida Department of Health confirmed four locally acquired cases of Zika virus infection in Florida State, specifically in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Authorities believe that active transmission of ZIKV is occurring in an approximately 1 square mile zone in Miami-Dade County, just north of downtown. While no mosquitoes trapped have tested positive for ZIKV, authorities believe these cases were likely transmitted through infected mosquitoes in this area.

The Florida Department of Health is actively conducting door-to-door outreach in the impacted area to help determine the number of people affected and will share more details as they become available. A map of the zone affected in Miami-Dade county is here.

Florida has been categorised as a Moderate risk area for the purpose of travel advice, and US authorities have acted quickly to put control measures in place. This means that although infection is not widespread there remains the potential for pregnant women to be exposed to infection.

Advice to Travellers

All Travellers

  • Mosquito bite avoidance is strongly recommended.
  • Seek travel advice from your healthcare provider at least 6-8 weeks in advance of travel, but particularly important if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
  • You are strongly advised to obtain adequate travel insurance – if pregnant, check with your travel insurance company that you are covered under the policy.
  • Advice on how to prevent sexual transmission of ZIKV should be followed

Specific recommendations if you are pregnant

Until the link between ZIKV and adverse pregnancy outcomes has been fully clarified pregnant women should:

  • Consider postponing non-essential travel to the affected areas until the baby has been born.
  • On return, early obstetric review is recommended even if well.
  • For more detailed advice look here.

Further Resources