El Paso man infected with Zika while visiting Florida
An El Paso man was infected with the Zika virus while visiting Florida, health officials said Monday.
When the man returned, he developed a rash and decided to have a doctor look at it. The doctor sent him to University Medical Center, where his blood was drawn and sent out to a lab for testing.
Health officials said the man is recovering.
“The patient provided blood and urine samples which were tested and came back positive. What we know is that this individual is recovering and is not considered a threat to the community,” said Robert Resendes, Public Health Director. “What we need is the community to take note that Zika virus is real, and we must protect ourselves and the community.”
The mosquito-borne virus has caused the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue travel warnings for pregnant women.
The DPH is also encouraging anyone who may be traveling to Zika-affected regions including certain areas of Florida, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Pacific Islands, and U.S. territories to take strict precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes.
Zika can also be transmitted sexually. Officials urge pregnant women with a male partner who traveled to a Zika-affected area should either abstain from sexual activity, or use condoms correctly and consistently for the duration of their pregnancy to protect the unborn fetus from the risk of severe birth defects, including microcephaly.
