The Zika virus has struck Florida’s blood supply as Miami blood donations have reportedly been halted as US regulators Thursday called for the halt on blood donations as investigators probe four potential non-travel associated cases of the mosquito-borne Zika virus, which can cause birth defects. If confirmed, the cases would mark the first time that mosquitoes carrying the virus are known to be present in the mainland United States.
Excerpt From Yahoo News:
The US territory of Puerto Rico has already seen a surge in local transmission of Zika, which can spread by mosquitoes or sexual contact. “In consideration of the possibility of an emerging local outbreak of Zika virus, and as a prudent measure to help assure the safety of blood and blood products, FDA is requesting that all blood establishments in Miami-Dade County and Broward County cease collecting blood immediately,” said a statement from the US Food and Drug Administration.
