AMA Disappointed by Congress’ Response to Zika Virus

CHICAGO — Dr. Andrew Gurman, president of the American Medical Assoc. (AMA), this week lamented the federal government’s lack of attention to the Zika virus threat.

“At a time when concerns continue to mount about the nation’s readiness to protect the public from the Zika virus, the AMA is disappointed by Congress’ failure to pass legislation before adjourning for summer recess that would provide the resources necessary for our country to respond to this looming public-health crisis,” Gurman said.

“Without ensuring there are sufficient resources available for research, prevention, control, and treatment of illnesses associated with the Zika virus, the United States will be ill-equipped to deploy the kind of public-health response needed to keep our citizens safe and healthy — especially since the spread of mosquito-borne illness is accelerated during the summer months,” he added. “The AMA will continue to update its online Zika Virus Resource Center with the most up-to-date information from the CDC and other trusted health organizations to help physicians prepare to handle possible cases of the virus and answer patients’ questions.”