AUSTIN – As Texas continues its response efforts surrounding the Zika virus, today Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has requested the Senate Health and Human Services Committee review Texas’ response. The committee will examine the incidence of the disease in Texas, surveillance efforts, modes of transmission, strategies to prevent transmission, and a review of local mosquito control programs across Texas counties. He requested that Chairman Charles Schwertner hold a hearing in May.

“With increasing news concerning the Zika virus’ potential impact on Texas, and after several personal discussions with medical experts over the past few months, I believe it is time for the latest update in a public hearing,” said Lt. Gov. Patrick.

Committee Chairman Schwertner agreed, adding “Based on recent developments concerning the Zika virus, I’m pleased that Lt. Governor Patrick has called on the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services to meet next month in order to hear testimony from medical experts, evaluate our state’s ability to effectively respond to challenges posed by the Zika virus, and explore what actions can be taken to mitigate any potential spread of the virus in Texas.”

Patrick concluded, “Recent flooding has made this issue even more important to examine. We need a report on our readiness across Texas, including ways for people to take mosquito precautions.”

The Senate Health and Human Services Committee’s next hearing will be held May 17, at 1:00pm in E1.012 in the state capitol.

Additional information about the Zika virus is available at http://www.texaszika.org/