Surgeon General: Precaution best method to fight Zika virus

James Gathany / CDC / MGN

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) – There aren’t any known cases of the Zika virus in Orange County or the surrounding areas at this point, but with the probability slowly increasing, the message is that of precaution.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell and U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy toured the Orange County Mosquito Control facility with Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs on Monday. They discussed several ways to prevent the dangerous virus spreading. The Zika virus is seen primarily as a disease passed by mosquitoes and has the most dangerous effect on pregnant women. Burwell says it has been found in 5,200 cases between the U.S. and Puerto Rico in recent months.

Health officials are still investigating the possibility of two non-travel-related Zika cases in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

Local Headlines

Former SWFL priest accused of sexual abuse in 1980s may have more victims

A priest accused of getting away with sexually touching multiple boys for 40 years may have more victims.

Family speaks out months after deadly crash in Collier County

Her mother said it’s a nightmare no family should ever have to go through. This is why they are going through with a lawsuit and sending a message to raise awareness.

Magic mushrooms may help ease depression, but are they safe?

The potential of magic mushrooms to act as a ‘magic’ solution to treat depression is getting a lot of attention. One of the most important aspects is safety.