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Zika outbreak prompts travel warning in Florida

MIAMI — The CDC has issued a new advisory that says pregnant women should not travel to the so-called Zika "transmission area" in parts of Florida. Pregnant women who live in the areas were advised to take steps to prevent mosquito bites and sexual spread of the virus.

During FOX25 Morning News Tuesday, signs about the dangers of Zika could be seen all over Boston's Logan Airport. The signs explained what the virus is and how travelers can protect themselves.

Monday, Florida Gov. Rick Scott announced ten new infections of the Zika virus likely transmitted by mosquitos, bringing the total in the state up to 14.

As FOX25 News at 10 p.m. reported, the new cases prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to issue a travel advisory.

The new cases are clustered in the same square-mile neighborhood, Miami's Wynwood Arts District. Florida health officials say they believe active transmissions of Zika are occurring only in that area.

The CDC says men and women who have visited this area since June 15 should wait at least eight weeks before trying to conceive. Because Zika infection has been found to linger in sperm for months, men with Zika symptoms should wait at least six months before trying to have a baby with their partner.

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Gov. Scott asked Monday for a federal emergency response team to help the state combat the spread of the Zika virus in the U.S.

READ MORE: Governor: 4 Zika cases likely came from Florida mosquitoes

Officials announced four cases on Friday, believed to be first people to contract the virus from mosquitoes within the 50 states.

U.S. health officials do not expect widespread outbreaks of the sort seen in Brazil and Latin America. Although most people who get Zika don't know they're sick, infection during pregnancy can cause babies to be born with small heads and other defects.

More than 1,650 people in the mainland U.S. have been infected with Zika in recent months, nearly all while traveling abroad.

On Friday, Florida agricultural officials immediately announced more aggressive mosquito-control efforts, and Florida politicians rushed to assure tourists it's still safe to visit the state.

The area, known for bold murals spray-painted across warehouses, art galleries, restaurants and boutiques, is rapidly gentrifying and has a number of construction sites where standing water can collect and serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.