Zika has been linked to severe birth defects, most notably microcephaly, a neurologically debilitating condition in which babies are born with abnormally small heads. Infections with the Zika virus have resulted in five pregnancy losses and 22 infants born with birth defects in the U.S.
Florida is currently the only state experiencing local Zika transmission. State officials have expressed concern that the arrival of Hurricane Matthew could inhibit efforts to contain the spread of Zika in Florida.
Massive rainfall generated by the storm could incite widespread flooding and subsequently create more breeding ground for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which are the primary vectors of the Zika virus. Additionally, heavy winds from the powerful hurricane will likely render mosquito control efforts, like spraying for mosquitoes, temporarily ineffective.
More articles on the Zika virus:
New research strengthens link between Zika and Guillain-Barre
Southerners taking more Zika precautions than other Americans, poll finds
Miami Beach mosquitoes keep testing positive for Zika as local cases continue to rise
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