Maryland sees first case of Zika virus

Thursday, researchers in Slovenia say they proved the link between the Zika virus and the birth defect microcephaly.

A third person has died as a result of contracting the mosquito-borne Zika virus, Brazil’s health ministry has confirmed.

Darryl Nevins’ Mosquito Joe franchise in Houston began getting an increase in calls last week after news reports of seven cases of Zika virus in the metropolitan area.

Yolo County on Wednesday reported California’s first case of the Zika virus this year, adding to concerns about the virus’ spread from Latin America.

Three cases of Zika, including one in a patient who is pregnant, have been reported in the District. The virus is spread through mosquito bites. “The illness may include a fever, a rash which is sometimes itchy, and joint pains”, Dr Taylor said.

Check here for more information on the Zika virus.

Captain Christine Sinclair says the Canadian soccer team is thinking of things other than the Zika virus as it bids to qualify for the Rio Olympics.

Hennessy said the diagnosis of the virus in the woman was “very concerning”.

“If they are going to these countries and they are pregnant they should consult their doctor and make a decision together with her doctor”, said the commissioner, Dr. Leana Wen.

The CDC has issued travel alerts to more than 25 countries, urging pregnant women to avoid areas where they could become infected.

For more on Zika virus, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Dr. Richard Budgett said there are no health warnings against traveling to Brazil, except for pregnant women, and stressed that no consideration has been given to postponing or canceling the games.

Here in Houston, there have not been any mosquito-transmitted infections of the virus, which is important to keep the disease at bay.

The U.S. Olympic Committee said it would hire two infectious disease specialists to advise potential Olympians who are anxious about the Zika outbreak.

The Obama administration has asked Congress for $1.8 billion in emergency funding to fight Zika at home and overseas, including mosquito eradication, study of the microcephaly link and developing a vaccine.