WINNIPEG — Manitoba health officials have confirmed two separate cases of the Zika virus in the province.
The provincial government says both individuals had recently travelled to an area affected by an outbreak.
Health officials could not confirm where the location was or when the individuals travelled.
This is the first time there have been confirmed reports of the Zika virus in Manitoba.
RELATED: Here’s what Zika virus symptoms look like in pregnant women
“The lab results came in Friday and they confirmed the virus,” said Isabelle Robitaille of Manitoba Health.
Zika virus first appeared in Brazil in May 2015. Months later, health officials noted a rise in birth defects in the country.
“Travellers to areas affected by the current outbreak and those areas at risk of an outbreak can protect themselves against Zika virus by taking individual protective measures to prevent mosquito bites including using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, using mosquito nets, and ensuring that doors and windows are screened,” said the province in a media release sent Friday.
WATCH: Manitoba doctor addresses concerns about the Zika Virus