Press Release

Four Additional Locally Transmitted Zika Virus Disease Cases Confirmed

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (December 9, 2016) – Cameron County Department of Health and Human Services announced today four additional locally transmitted Zika virus disease cases have been confirmed. All of the cases were identified as a result of the door-to-door surveillance activities conducted by the department last week as a response to the first locally transmitted Zika virus disease case in Brownsville.

The City of Brownsville will continue working with the Cameron County Department of Health and Human Services, Texas Department of State Health Services and Center for Disease Control and Prevention in the education, surveillance and vector activities.

"The Public Health & Wellness Department is committed to working with the Cameron County Health Department to address concerns regarding Zika and other mosquito-borne illnesses," said City Public Health & Wellness Director Arturo Rodriguez. "We advise residents to take preventative measures and contact vector control if they encounter areas with mosquitos."

Citizens are encourage to use the following prevention methods:

• Apply EPA-registered mosquito repellent that contains DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Spray exposed skin and clothing with repellent. Be sure to read label instructions on any repellent and use as directed. Dress protectively by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes when you are outside. Drain standing water in your backyard and neighborhood.
• Use air conditioning or window/door screens to keep mosquitoes outside. Stay indoors to prevent mosquito bites.
• Keep in mind that mosquitoes that spread the Zika virus bite mostly during the daytime so county residents should use precautions throughout the day. If you are not able to protect yourself from mosquitoes inside your home or hotel, sleep under a mosquito bed net.
• Use protection during sex especially if your partner traveled to an area with Zika or if you are pregnant or considering getting pregnant. Women and men who are considering starting or expanding their family should talk to their healthcare provider to inform their decisions about timing of pregnancy.

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