First Zika case confirmed in Central Florida

Travel-related case found in Osceola County

ORLANDO, Fla. – A case of Zika has been confirmed in Central Florida, according to health officials.

The Florida Department of Health said on Friday that a travel-related case was confirmed in Osceola County, and the number of cases in the state is now up to 14. Another new case was also discovered in St. Johns County, officials said.

[MORE: Zika travel notices | Virus symptoms, treatment | Drain and cover video ]

There have been no locally acquired cases of Zika virus in Florida, according to officials, who added that none of the confirmed cases involve pregnant women. 

According to the CDC, Zika fever illness is generally mild with a rash, fever and joint pain. CDC researchers are examining a possible link between the virus and unborn babies exposed during pregnancy.

State health officials said starting Monday it will hold daily briefings about Zika.

[RELATED:  Mosquito bite protection in Florida]

On Thursday, Gov. Rick Scott asked the CDC to provide at least 1,000 Zika antibody tests so the state can test individuals, especially pregnant women and new mothers who have traveled to affected areas and had symptoms of Zika. The antibody test allows the state to see if individuals ever had the Zika virus. Florida currently has the capacity to test only 475 people.

Zika Virus Around the World | HealthGrove


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About the Author:

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.