Zika cases investigated in Chicago

CHICAGO – City health officials say Zika virus poses “no significant risk” to Chicago.

There are 3 confirmed cases in Illinois, including two pregnant women.

They contracted the virus while traveling.

Blood samples from more than a dozen potential cases have been sent to the CDC for testing, said Dr. Allison Arwady, Chief Medical Officer for the Chicago Dept. of Public Health.

“I want to reassure residents, the mosquitos that carry this virus are not native to the Chicago area,” said Arwady. “If you want to stay healthy in Chicago this time of year get a flu shot, don’t worry about Zika.”

Presence Saint Joseph Hospital in Lakeview confirmed one potential Zika case was referred to the hospital’s infectious disease clinic. Test results are expected next week.

Only 1 in 5 people infected with the virus will experience mild, flu-like symptoms but researchers are studying a possible link between the virus and birth defects.

Florida's governor has declared a health emergency in 4 counties. In Texas, one confirmed case was spread through sexual contact.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued travel notices for impacted countries, mostly in South and Central America and the Caribbean. The CDC is currently advising pregnant women or women who can become pregnant to reconsider traveling to countries affected by the virus, and is expected to release more guidelines regarding the sexual transmission of the virus.