The number of travel-related Zika virus cases is growing in Georgia.
In one week, that number jumped from 48 cases on August 17 to more than 60 cases on August 25.
Southeast Health District Public Information Officer Mary Beth Kennedy Butler said the number changes everyday but that the department's message is the same.
"We still want people to protect themselves."
Georgia uses statewide reporting to share Zika instances with the public so it is not clear where the cases are located.
There are no reported cases of the virus being transported locally.
In fact, the only state seeing locally-transmitted cases of the virus is Florida. The number of non-travel related cases in that state now stands at 43, with the majority having occurred in Miami-Dade County. Palm Beach County is north of Miami.
Zika causes a mild illness in most people but can lead to severe brain-related birth defects if women are infected during pregnancy.
Photos | Zika prevention in efforts in Miami
PHOTOS | Zika prevention efforts in Miami
The CDC offers these tips to avoid exposure to Zika:
- Avoid mosquito bites by using bug spray and wearing longer selves
- Avoid sex with someone who has been exposed to Zika. Condoms and other barriers can reduce the spread of Zika and other viruses transmitted through sex.
- Clear the outside of your home and business of standing water. It can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
