AMA Issues Statement on Congress Passing Zika Funding

CHICAGO — Dr. Andrew Gurman, president of the American Medical Assoc. (AMA), praised legislators for funding the fight against the Zika virus.

“It has been clear over the past several months that the U.S. has needed additional resources to combat the Zika virus. The AMA is pleased that Congress has taken action to provide the resources necessary to help contain the virus and limit any further impact on Americans,” Gurman said. “With the threat of the virus continuing to loom, this funding will help protect more people — particularly pregnant women and their children — from the virus’ lasting negative health effects.”

For months, the AMA has called on policymakers to ensure a robust response to the Zika virus. The AMA sent letters to Congress in May and adopted new policy in June asking for immediate action to make available the necessary resources to prepare our nation to address the looming threat of Zika.

The AMA has compiled numerous Zika virus-related items in its online Zika Virus Resource Center, including the most up-to-date information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health organizations, to help physicians prepare to handle possible cases of the virus and answer patients’ questions. The AMA will continue to support healthcare professionals in treating and preventing complications from the Zika virus.