Zika virus could pose an increased risk after Hurricane Matthew


In the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, a new concern may be facing those living along the affected coastal regions.

The Atlantic reports that these areas may continue to struggle with the Zika virus; though the storm could destroy existing habitats of the disease-carrying Aedes aegypti mosquito, residual water could remain in areas, creating new breeding grounds.

As Philip Stoddard, a biology professor with Florida International University, explains, "Every little object that blows off a house or even a chair flipped over on a porch becomes a container for mosquitoes to breed."

Around 11 years ago, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that cases of the mosquito-borne West Nile Virus surged in the wake of Hurricane Katrina despite a drop in local population.

Experts have attributed the problem, in part, to people spending more time outside due to damaged or destroyed housing.

Despite the recent concerns, a CNN report points out that Hurricane Matthew's arrival late in the mosquito season could be an advantage in limiting an outbreak.

However, officials still plan to monitor the situation and advise affected residents to remain covered during outdoor activities.

RELATED: 50 cities with the highest risk for Zika

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