State, local health officials honing Zika action plan
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — As mosquito season approaches, Alabama public health officials are working to get a better understanding of what resources are available for mosquito control efforts amid rising concerns over the Zika virus.
Alabama Department of Public Health Emergency Preparedness Director Andy Mullins says the state is awaiting the results of an assessment to determine what kinds of mosquito control resources are available at the city and county level.
He says the department is looking into ways to have counties that don't have their own mosquito control programs split resources similar to the way law enforcement, fire and EMS operations are often shared in rural and unincorporated areas.
Officials have said they hope public education and outreach coupled with mosquito control work help minimize the risk of the virus being transmitted locally.