The Illinois Department of Public Health is alerting the public about the risk of contracting the Zika Virus while traveling outside the country. The Zika Virus is transmitted thru the bite of a mosquito and is similar to the West Nile Virus. Two cases in Illinois have recently been confirmed says Public Health Director Doctor Nirav Shah.
The virus is spread only thru mosquito bites so the risk in Illinois is virtually nil. Pregnant women who are traveling to countries where the Zika Virus is more prevalent are urged to reconsider their plans.