On Friday, Florida Gov. Rick Scott announced the local transmission of Zika virus in Miami Beach.

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) believes that active transmission of this virus are only occurring in the area of Miami Beach between 8th and 28th streets.

Aedes aegypti Image/CDC
Aedes aegypti
Image/CDC

DOH says that five individuals that have already been confirmed as cases of local transmissions of Zika are connected to the Miami Beach area.

Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine said, “We would like to reassure residents and visitors that the City of Miami Beach has been proactively focusing on the elimination of potential breeding sites for months, and will continue to aggressively do so, including doubling our inspection and mitigation efforts in the designated area.

“It is our priority to ensure the safety of all that live, work and play in Miami Beach.”

Miami-Dade County continues its targeted, on-ground spraying efforts using EPA, CDC and Department of Agriculture approved pesticides.

“We are confident and continue to be optimistic about the processes and steps that the City, County and DOH are taking,” added President & CEO Bill Talbert, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The methods have proven successful across the Bay, as those areas have just been reduced today with the clearing of 14 blocks. We know these efforts will be successful in Miami Beach as well.”

“Personal responsibility is crucial in our community,” said Miami Beach City Manager Jimmy L. Morales. “Residents, businesses and visitors must all do their part to reduce local transmissions.”

Related: USF holds Zika conference: Reps. Jolly and Castor speak

Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a teaspoon of water, so it is imperative to drain all sources of standing water on individual properties, including flower pots, buckets, car tires, toys, etc.

Standing water on Miami Beach for more than 48 hours can be reported to the Public Works Department at 305.673.7625 or via the free, Miami Beach eGov app.

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