The new survey was conducted three days after the first 15 non-travel-related cases of Zika were reported in the Miami area.
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The declaration means the island can now apply for emergency funding and appoint staff to assist in mosquito control efforts, outreach and Zika education campaigns.
Zika virus is known to cause microcephaly and other severe fetal brain defect in newborns and has been associated with other adverse pregnancy outcomes, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and serious neurological problems.
Puerto Rico’s health department reported Friday that 10,690 people had been infected with the mosquito-borne virus in the last seven months. Florida health officials say there have been at least 25 local Zika infections. It is meant to promote an immune response that would protect against the mosquito-borne virus that can cause devastating birth defects, according to a statement from the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).
Previously, the Health Department included data on the number of pregnant women in the territory with a confirmed diagnosis of Zika, but the latest statement didn’t include that information.
The survey also found that 45 percent of respondents had “medium to high” levels of knowledge about Zika, and 82 percent knew about protective measures such as use of insect repellents, staying indoors with air conditioning, and having screened windows and doors.
In addition to mosquitoes, the Zika virus can be transmitted through sex.
Dr Knight said of the individuals with the virus, two are males (one adult and one child) and the remaining five are all adult females.
The CDC advises pregnant women not to travel to an area where active Zika transmission is ongoing, and to use insect repellent and wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts if they are in those areas.
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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a warning for pregnant women to avoid this area of Miami. Many infected people will not experience any symptoms.
