First positive case of Zika virus confirmed in Sonoma County

SONOMA, Calif. (KGO) -- Sonoma County health officials have confirmed its first case of Zika virus today. The individual contracted the virus while traveling to Central America after being bit by mosquitos.

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The mosquitoes that transmit the Zika virus have not been detected in Sonoma County. Currently, there is no risk for Zika to spread by mosquitoes here.

However, the Zika virus can also be spread through sexual contact and from a mother to her unborn baby. "We anticipate more cases. Even though there is currently no risk for local transmission, our residents could be exposed to Zika virus through travel, sexual contact with travelers and from mothers to their unborn babies" Sonoma County Deputy Health Officer Karen Holbrook, M.D., said. "We want our residents to understand the risks and to take steps to protect themselves, their sexual partners and their babies."

Spread of the Zika virus occurs primarily through infected Aedes mosquitoes which are present throughout the Caribbean, South and Central America.

For full coverage on the Zika virus, click here.