Third Zika virus case confirmed in Quebec

Two more cases of the Zika viruswereconfirmed in Quebec today,bringing the total number of infected peopleto three.

On Monday morning,Health MinisterGatanBarretteconfirmed that one personcontracted the virus on a recent trip to Brazil.

He said that Quebecerisnow at home,suffering from flu-like symptoms.

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Later, on Monday afternoon, the ministry confirmed another case.

The first case, confirmed by authorities last Friday,involved a woman who was infected while travelling in the Caribbean in early January.

'Practically zero' risk in Quebec

Quebec public health officials have sought to downplay fears of an outbreak of the Zika virus.

Dr. Horacio Arruda, Quebec's director of public health, said lastFriday the chances of contracting the virus in Quebec are "practically zero."

The type of mosquito that transmits Zikais not present in Quebec, he added.

Arrudadidwarnthat Quebecerswho visit Central and SouthAmerica should take precautions, especially women who are pregnant or thinking about having children.

The Zikavirus is believed to have aconnection tomicrocephaly, a rare neurological birth defect characterized by an abnormally small head that can lead to developmental issues or even death.