Florida has recorded its 37th case of the Zika virus, state health officials said.
As of today, two new Zika cases have been confirmed; one in Broward County and one in Miami-Dade County.
The Zika virus, a mosquito-born illness, has been a public concern since a large number of cases were reported in countries in the Caribbean and Central and South America. The impact has been dire on pregnant women, who has seen a rise in the number of birth defect as a result of mosquito-carrying illness.
In an effort to keep Florida residents and visitors safe and alert about the status of the Zika virus, state Surgeon General and Secretary of Health John Armstrong will issue a Zika virus update each weekday at 2 p.m.
Updates will include a Centers for Disease Control-confirmed Zika case count by county and information to better keep Floridians prepared.
So far, Hillsborough is the only county in the Tampa Bay area reporting cases of the Zika virus. Hillsborough is reporting 3 such cases, all believed to be travel-related.
Three Zika virus cases have been reported in Hillsborough County
Of the travel-related cases confirmed across the state, only four cases are still exhibiting symptoms, state health officials said.
According to the CDC, symptoms associated with the Zika virus last from 7 to 10 days.
In early February, Gov. Rick Scott directed Armstrong to activate a Zika Virus Information Hotline for current Florida residents and visitors and anyone planning to travel to Florida in the near future. The hotline is managed by the Department of Health and has assisted 769 callers since it launched.
To reach the Zika Virus Information Hotline, call 855-622-6735
