TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Fears among pregnant women are rising now that more-and-more cases of the Zika Virus are confirmed in Florida.
To combat those fears, members of the Healthy Start Coalition of Hillsborough County are teaming up with state doctors to go over questions and concerns with pregnant women.
“Right now, I think it’s just a concern,” said Healthy Start Coalition executive director Jane Murphy. “If I were a pregnant woman, I would not go to the Miami area. I’d make sure I was wearing protective clothing,” she said.
Experts suggest pregnant women avoid areas where mosquitos breed and wear bug repellent.
The virus has the potential of causing microcephaly in an unborn child. It can have a severe impact on the development of a child’s brain.
The Florida Department of Health reports more than 80 cases of Zika involving pregnant women.
The Coalition is holding a seminar to discuss issues about the virus at noon on Friday at the Stetson University Tampa Law Center.
Women can talk to doctors and local health leaders about the virus and possible transmission.
Recently, a Zika Virus hotline was established in Florida. Concerned residents can call 855-622-6735 to get answers to important questions about the virus.
