Calvert County Health Department

Zika Virus Update

At least 14 people in the Miami area have been infected by Zika virus. Unlike the previous 1,600 cases of Zika infection among U.S. residents, these 14 people have not traveled to foreign countries. The CDC is reporting these cases were caused by local mosquitoes in Miami that are now carrying the Zika virus.

At the moment, the only evidence of Zika-infected mosquitoes is in the Miami area. See http://www.cdc.gov/zika/intheus/florida-update.html for a map of the exact location. However, given the rapid spread in other countries, it is possible that other areas of Florida may have infected mosquito populations in the near future.

It is recommended that anyone who has traveled to the Miami area since June 15th and has developed:
-Fever
-Joint pain
-Skin rash
or
-Red eyes (conjunctivitis)

should be tested for Zika. Any PREGNANT woman who has visited the Miami area since June 15th, EVEN IF SHE HASN'T DEVELOPED ANY SYMPTOMS, should also be tested. The virus can potentially harm a developing fetus even if the mother doesn't get sick after a mosquito bite.

If you qualify for testing, please contact your family practitioner, obstetrician, or the Calvert County Health Department. The Health Department's number to discuss testing is (410) 535-5400 x334.

Any women who are pregnant or may become pregnant in the near future should avoid travel to the Miami area until it is clear that there is no further spread of Zika. This also applies to sexual partners of women who are pregnant or may become pregnant.  The birth defects caused by Zika are irreversible and potentially devastating to the health of a fetus.

Please remember to dump out any standing water from around your house. There are mosquitoes in our area that are also capable of transmitting Zika virus. These mosquitoes breed around homes. Please click on http://bit.ly/2aKc5qx for more information about precautions you can take to help keep Southern Maryland Zika-free.