AUSTIN (WBAP/KLIF News) – With local Zika cases detected in Florida and increased travel to Brazil for the Summer Olympics, Texas is on high alert for local Zika transmission by mosquito bites and is urging everyone to strictly follow precautions.
“It’s the perfect mix – local transmission in Florida, travel to Brazil, and we’re at the height of mosquito season in Texas,” said Dr. John Hellerstedt, Texas Department of State Health Services commissioner. “Local transmission here is likely at some point. The good news is that Texas is ready.”
Texas has reported 93 cases of Zika virus disease – all related to travel abroad to areas with active Zika transmission. No local transmission through mosquito bite has been detected yet in Texas. State efforts have been underway since January to delay and minimize the impact of Zika on Texas.
“If Texas has local transmission, we’ll quickly announce it and describe the area of potential risk for Texans,” Dr. Hellerstedt said. “We’re working in lockstep with our local and federal partners to ensure a strong Texas response.” DSHS is spending more than $6 million in state and federal funds on disease surveillance, expanded lab testing capabilities, public education and awareness, Zika prevention kits and other efforts.
Tarrant County reported it’s 14th case of imported Zika virus in a patient that had recently traveled to Granada. Earlier this week, Dallas County confirmed there are now 22 people that have been infected with the illness after traveling to South America, Mexico or the Caribbean.
Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick issued a statement today saying he requested several months ago that the U-S Department of Health and Human Services hold a special hearing on Zika.
The official source for Texas public health information about Zika is www.TexasZika.org.
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