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Investigation into Hidalgo Co. Zika Case Underway

7 years 1 month 1 day ago Friday, February 24 2017 Feb 24, 2017 February 24, 2017 3:50 PM February 24, 2017 in News

MCALLEN – The Hidalgo County Health Department and McAllen officials held a press conference about an investigation into a Zika case.

It was reported to the health department on Wednesday. A private lab testing confirmed a positive test for the virus.

“Private labs are the ones that do the testing. They are certified to do the testing. They have very reputable systems and equipment to do the testing. But you know, we are following protocols introduced by the CDC and Department of Health Services,” Human Services Chief Administrator Eddie Olivares said.

In attendance at the press conference was McAllen Mayor Jim Darling, Hidalgo County Judge Ramon Garcia, city manager Roel Roy Rodriguez and Hidalgo County Health and Olivares.

As of Friday, no travel history for the patient was established outside of Hidalgo County. However, officials said further investigation is needed to determine how exposure occurred.

According to information collected by the Hidalgo County epidemiologists, local transmission cannot be ruled out.

Olivares said final designation of the case status will be made after the investigation has been completed.

Hidalgo County has been identified as one of the six counties along the border that have been placed on alert for the Zika virus by the Department of State Health Services.

Check back for updates. 

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