(Image source from: First sexually transmitted case of Zika Virus found in Dallas})

Health and Human Services Department of the Dallas country, have confirmed the first case of Zika virus through sexual contact, in the US. The public health officials of the state, reported that, the person diagnosed with the Zika virus after having sexual contact with the person, who was infected with the virus in the country, where, Zika is circulating.

The director of the Dallas County Health Department, Zachary Thompson, said that, "now that we know the Zika virus can be transmitted through sex, this increases our awareness campaign in educating the public about protecting themselves and others. Next to abstinence, condoms are the best prevention method against any sexually transmitted infections." The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), also confirmed the case.

A CDC spokeswoman said that, "CDC has confirmed through laboratory testing the first case of Zika virus infection in a non-traveler in the continental United States.”

"According to the Health Department investigation of the Dallas County, a person who recently traveled to an area with Zika virus transmission returned to the United States and developed Zika-like symptoms. The person later tested positive for Zika, along with their sexual partner, who had not traveled to the area," she added.

The Zika virus is a mosquito born virus and spread through the mosquito bites. Even though, in some rare cases the virus can be transmitted from mother to child during birth and through blood transfusions and sexual contact.

The CDC reported that, there are nearly 28 countries across the world, that are identified as having current outbreaks of the Zika Virus.

Nandini