Prevalence of Zika Virus Cases in the State of Texas [37Q

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Zika virus is an emerging national health concern due to its potentially devastating effects on pregnancy. It is of particular concern in Texas because it shares a physical border with Mexico where Zika virus is endemic. Additionally, the Aedes mosquito vector capable of transmitting Zika virus can be found in Texas. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of Zika virus infection in Texas. METHODS: We accessed the Texas Department of State Health Services publicly available information on current Zika virus cases through the Texaszika.org website. The information was analyzed for trends and patterns in geographic location and mode of transmission. RESULTS: As of September 22nd 2016, one hundred and ninety-six cases of Zika virus have been identified in Texas. Two cases were transmitted via sexual transmission, but all remaining cases were acquired from travel to endemic countries. No locally acquired mosquito-borne cases have been identified. Cases are most prevalent in Harris county (fifty-five cases), Dallas county (thirty-five cases) and Tarrant county (twenty-one cases), all of which are in metropolitan areas with international airports. There are six cases in counties that share the physical border with Mexico. A significant association was found between Zika cases and factors including metropolitan counties (P < .0001), counties with an international airport (P < .0001) and increased birth rate (P < .0001). CONCLUSION: Zika virus is a concern in the state of Texas. Nearly all Zika cases have been acquired through travel to endemic countries. The largest number of cases appear to be associated with metropolitan areas containing international airports.