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Zika Virus Infection in USA (Florida) (Update)

03 Aug 2016

On 2 August 2016 the Florida Department of Health (FDoH) reported that they are investigating one new non-travel related ZIKV infection in Miami-Dade County. The FDoH stated that the total number of non-travel related cases of ZIKV infection is 15 and that all cases are in Miami-Dade and Broward County.

The FDoH still believes that active transmission of ZIKV is only occurring in one small area in Miami-Dade County. A map of the zone affected in Miami-Dade County can be accessed here.

Since starting to investigate possible local transmissions of ZIKV (7 July 2016) over 340 individuals in Miami-Dade and Broward County that live or work near those confirmed with likely mosquito-borne transmissions of ZIKV have been tested for ZIKV infection.

Florida has been categorised as a Moderate risk area for the purpose of advising travellers.

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