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State Health Department Testing for Zika Virus as Cases Rise

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The State Health Department is now testing for the mosquito-borne Zika virus at its public health lab in Austin as the number of cases continues to climb in Texas.

Taking Precautions

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In preparation for increased mosquito activity that could result in transmission of the virus, the state health department began doing the testing from human samples prepared by local health departments. Prior to this, these samples were sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Mild Symptoms

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The Zika virus, which has been linked to a birth defect, can cause rashes, muscle and joint pain, fever and red eyes. These symptoms usually last for approximately one week and are recognized to be mild in intensity.

Current Confirmed Cases by County

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According to the latest update by the Texas Department of State Health Services, the official count of Zika cases in Texas has climbed to 33, with a case-by-county count as follows:

  • Bexar – 3
  • Collin – 1
  • Dallas – 6
  • Denton – 1
  • Fort Bend – 2
  • Grayson – 1
  • Harris – 12
  • Tarrant – 3
  • Travis – 2
  • Val Verde – 1
  • Wise – 1

Of the 33 confirmed cases, 32 were found to be infected by travel abroad, and 1 case in Dallas County, which is thought to be contracted through sexual activity with one of these travelers.

Testing for Transmission

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Commissioner of the state health department, Dr. John Hellerstedt, has identified that local transmission of the virus in Texas by mosquitoes is only a matter of time. 153 cases have been reported throughout the country – all travel related, and the virus is spreading quickly in both the Caribbean and Latin America.

Getting Prepared

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Carrie Williams, spokesperson for the Department of State Health Services, identified that the state’s public health lab in Austin is capable of handling a maximum of 135 human specimens per week. The remainder can be taken at local health agencies, such as those in Tarrant and Dallas counties.

References:

thescoopblog.dallasnews.com

texaszika.org