Third case of Zika virus in NM reported in Chaves Co. man

The New Mexico Department of Health on Friday announced the third confirmed case of Zika virus in New Mexico has been found in a 41-year-old Chaves County man.

The health department says the man contracted the virus while traveling in Central America. While the species of mosquito that carries the virus is present in the summer and fall in Chaves County, the health department confirmed there was no mosquito activity in the county when the man contracted the virus.

Nonetheless, NMDOH said Friday people with water reservoirs that can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes should be sure they remain clean.

This is the third confirmed case of travel-related Zika virus in New Mexico and the second reported this week.

NMDOH reported Wednesday a 40-year-old Bernalillo County woman contracted the virus while traveling in the Caribbean, but has since recovered.

A 46-year-old Bernalillo County man contracted the virus in March while traveling in El Salvador. He too has since recovered.

The virus can be transmitted from mosquitoes or through semen and sexual contact. Pregnant women infected with the virus have seen their children suffer birth defects.

Men are encouraged to abstain from sex or use a condom if they have contracted or come into contact with someone who has contracted the virus.

French researchers also reported Friday that the virus can possibly be spread via oral sex.

Pregnant women are encouraged to avoid traveling to the affected areas.

Travel advisories have been issued for affected countries. The latest list can be found here.