1st confirmed case of Zika reported in Nashville

The Metro Public Health Department announced Tuesday that a Davidson County resident has tested positive for the Zika virus.

According to health officials, the person recently returned to Nashville after traveling to Honduras where Zika disease is being transmitted by mosquitoes. The individual is expected to survive, health officials said.

Metro's health department received confirmation Tuesday from the Tennessee Department of Health about the first reported case in Nashville.

“Many people travel to and from Nashville to countries where Zika is being transmitted, therefore, we expected the possibility of imported cases of the disease,” said Bill Paul, M.D., Director of Health of Nashville/Davidson County. “Those who become ill soon after returning from a Zika transmission area should contact their health care provider,” Dr. Paul said.

“Even though mosquitoes are not spreading Zika here, we know West Nile virus has been an issue for more than a decade and should be a reminder for everyone to routinely take steps to protect against biting mosquitoes and prevent mosquito breeding areas by removing standing water.” Dr. Paul said.

How to prevent mosquito bites this summer

Health Department staff will be visiting the Otter Creek Area where the traveler lives to distribute flyers to area residents.  The mosquito prevention and protection flyers are also available on the Health Department’s website.

Reach Natalie Neysa Alund at 615-259-8072. Follow her on Twitter @nataliealund.