Zika Virus Found in Albany County

The latest victim of the Zika Virus is an Albany County resident.

The Albany resident got sick after traveling to a region where there is an outbreak of the Zika Virus. Outbreaks are occurring throughout Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Pacific Islands.

The total number of cases in the state is now 189.

The Zika virus is spread mostly by mosquitoes, and in one case, from sexual contact with a person who had the virus. For most people, it results in a mild illness with few, if any, symptoms. But it has been linked to serious birth defects for babies born to pregnant women who have contracted the virus.

Scientists have not found the disease in any mosquito in the United States.

Contact your local Health Department for more information about the Zika Virus.