Number of confirmed Zika cases in Florida up to 20

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Two more cases of Zika virus infection in Florida were confirmed Friday, bringing the state's total to 20.

The new cases were detected in Broward and Alachua counties, the governor’s office said.

In response to the increasing number of Zika infections, Gov. Rick Scott directed State Surgeon General Dr. John Armstrong to establish a Zika virus information hotline for Florida residents, visitors and anyone planning to travel to the state.

The hotline will be managed by the Florida Department of Health and will provide information on the Zika virus and steps that the state is taking to prevent its spread.

“We want to make sure Florida residents and visitors have access to an open line of communication so they can receive the latest updates on the Zika virus in our state,” Scott said. “ … With 20 million residents and 100 million tourists, we have made it a priority to stay ahead of the possible spread of this virus in Florida, and we will continue to do all we can to keep our families safe.”

The hotline number is 855-622-6735.

The cases of Zika in Florida are all travel-related and do not involve pregnant women, the governor’s office said.

Along with Broward and Alachua, cases of the virus have also been confirmed in Hillsborough, Miami-Dade, Lee, Santa Rosa, St. Johns and Osceola counties.

Cox Media Group