CDC Director Warns That Zika Threat Is Not Over
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Tom Frieden says he is concerned that some people -- including pregnant women -- might become less vigilant in protecting themselves from the virus. Meanwhile, one mosquito-control expert says now is the time to ramp up efforts to fight back against the mosquitoes that carry Zika.
Stat:
Zika Threat Isn't Over, CDC Director Warns Pregnant Women Thinking About Beach Vacations
Over the past year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention took the extraordinary step of urging pregnant women to avoid travel to dozens of mainly Latin American countries to stave off infection with the Zika virus. With inclement weather prompting Americans to muse about winter vacations in sunny climes, the CDC wants to make it clear: That recommendation still stands. CDC Director Tom Frieden admitted he is worried that people may think the worst of Zika is over and that they can let down their guard. (Branswell, 12/30)
Health News Florida:
Mosquito Populations Low? Now’s The Time To Really Fight Zika, Says Researcher
Mosquito populations may be dropping with the temperature outside right now, and that means this is the right time to ramp up mosquito prevention efforts, says Dr. Uriel Kitron. Kitron is an expert on mosquito-borne diseases and a professor and chair of environmental sciences at Emory University. (Mack, 12/29)
