Health Officials Searching for Zika Virus in Rochester

A search is on in Southeastern Minnesota for a species of mosquito known to carry the Zika virus. Last week, health officials were in Albert Lea, and soon will continue their search in Rochester. 

According to Minnesota Health Officials, the nearest established population of the Asian tiger mosquito is in southern Illinois, but small populations have been found in Minnesota before.

Albert Lea was given the all clear last week. The search will continue in Rochester, Winona, Mankota and other southern Minnesota cities.

In an interview with KELO TV, Epidemiologist Dave Neitzel said he's not expecting to find the mosquitoes because the state's winters should be harsh enough to kill them. He says if the mosquito is in Minnesota, it would be more likely for them to survive in the south, where there are warmer temperatures.