Two infants with Zika-related microcephaly have been born in California to women who had Zika infections during pregnancy after spending time out of the country, according to the California Department of Public Health.

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The locations of the women nor the country where they are suspected of being infected were released.

“This is a sobering reminder for Californians that Zika can cause serious harm to a developing fetus,” said CDPH Director and State Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith. “We join the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in urging pregnant women to avoid travel to areas with known Zika transmission. Pregnant women who must travel to one of these areas should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites and speak with a health care provider upon return.”
 
“Zika virus can also be transmitted to sexual partners by both males and females. Both men and women of childbearing age should take precautions if they have recently traveled, or plan to travel, to a location where Zika is spreading,” added Dr. Smith.

While mosquitoes that can carry the Zika virus have been found in 12 California counties, including Fresno County, there is no evidence these mosquitoes are transmitting the virus at this time, according to the CDPH.

Fresno County recently announced its first travel-related Zika infection, as did Tulare County yesterday.

As of July 29, CDPH has confirmed 114 travel-associated Zika virus infections in 22 counties. A total of 21 infections have been confirmed in pregnant women.