Newswise — Andrew Bonwit, MD, pediatric infectious disease specialist, Loyola University Health System, is available for interviews on the Zika virus and what population is most vulnerable to infection.

Two pregnant women in Illinois have been diagnosed with the Zika virus. Both traveled to international, warm weather countries where it is suspected they were infected with the virus.

“Only 20 percent of those bitten by a mosquito carrying the Zika virus exhibit symptoms, and the symptoms are very mild. There may, with the emphasis on may, be a link between the Zika virus and microcephaly, a severe birth defect that can cause the head and brain to be smaller than usual,” says Dr. Bonwit, who specializes in international pediatric infectious diseases.

For media interviews, please contact Stasia Thompson at 708-216-5155.