Gov. Scott declares public health emergency in Lee, other counties for Zika virus

Published: Updated:
James Gathany / CDC / MGN

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- Gov. Rick Scott signed an executive order on Wednesday directing state Surgeon General Dr. John Armstrong to declare a public health emergency in the four counties with confirmed cases of the Zika virus.

Nine travel-associated cases were identified in Lee, Miami-Dade, Hillsborough, and Santa Rosa counties.

“Although Florida’s current nine Zika cases were travel-related, we have to ensure Florida is prepared and stays ahead of the spread of the Zika virus in our state,” said Scott. “Our Department of Health will continue to be in constant communication with all county health offices, hospitals and the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  We know that we must be prepared for the worst even as we hope for the best.”

The executive order also authorizes the Commissioner of Agriculture to issue a mosquito declaration in the affected counties to help control the mosquito population, particularly in residential areas.

The Florida Department of Health will decide if any additional measures are necessary to combat the spread of Zika, according to the governor’s office.

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