Three of the Four Corners states are receiving new funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to combat the Zika virus. Arizona was awarded $2.4 million, New Mexico $400,000, and Utah $200,000.
Zika, which can cause serious birth defects, is carried by two mosquito species that have been found in much of the southern United States. Arizona Department of Health Services spokesperson Holly Ward says that state’s funding will be disbursed to counties for surveillance, lab testing, outbreak investigation response, mosquito control, education, and other purposes. New Mexico and Utah reportedly will use their funds primarily for finding, monitoring, and assisting infants with birth defects linked to the virus. The awards, which totaled $16 million among 40 states and territories, were announced Tuesday.