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Couples delaying pregnancy over Zika

One doctor says now might be a good time
Posted at 6:43 PM, Sep 13, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-14 05:33:01-04

Kelly Burja and her husband moved across country from LA to be close to family. They have a one and half year son named Bryden. They hoped to give their parents more grandkids. But that's on hold after hearing advisories from the CDC on Zika.

"They were telling people not to travel to Florida if they were having a baby or if they were pregnant. It's like what if you live here? I kind of want to wait to see what they're going to do or give me a little bit more confidence in getting pregnant," said Burja.

Dr. Marcy Solomon Baker, a pediatrician with the BayCare Medical Group said Burja is not alone.

"We have had some patients in her office who said that they are going to delay their pregnancy," said Dr. Baker.

The decision doesn't surprise Dr. Baker, a pediatrician of 17 years. She said couples have many factors to consider. But the doctor says there is one good reason NOT to delay.

"We are getting into the winter time. Things are not as bad as maybe they could be. What could next year or the year after or the year after that bring? How long are you willing to wait?" said Dr. Baker. "Do you have time to delay? The CDC has said this could go on for years."

The doctor said that is why it's critical that congress steps in now.

"We absolutely need funding for mosquito research and control," said Dr. Baker.

And Burja wants more knowledge too. The Florida Department of Health does provide a daily Zika update but they don't release the number of affected pregnant women in each county.

"I would want to know hundred percent. If I knew what was happening in Hillsborough or Pinellas. I would definitely wait," said Burja.

With more questions than answers doctors offices are sending patients paperwork on the virus.

For Burja and many others until there's more definitive information they'll enjoy the family they have.