First Confirmed Zika Case In First State

Public Health officials announced Tuesday the first confirmed Zika case in the first state.

Officials say the patient is an adult female and the case is apparently travel-related and pregnancy is not an issue.

According to the Division of Public Health, Zika is a generally mild illness currently widespread in Central and South America and the Caribbean. Anyone who lives or travels in the impacted areas can be infected. Zika is mosquito-borne and most people who are infected with Zika do not develop symptoms. The most serious threat linked to Zika is birth defects in infants whose mother contracted the disease. DPH is focusing its messaging and awareness on preventing exposure for pregnant women and their partners. 

A statewide media call is scheduled for Wednesday, February 10th where more information is scheduled to be released.

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