Boston Unveils Plan to Thwart Spread of Zika Virus

BOSTON (AP) — The city of Boston is doing its part to battle the spread of the Zika virus, which has been linked to brain damage and birth defects in newborns.

The Boston Public Health Commission is working with city schools, the Massachusetts Port Authority and religious groups to educate people who plan to visit family and friends in areas affected by the mosquito-borne disease.

The Boston Herald reports that the commission starting in July will distribute Zika prevention kits that include mosquito repellent, mosquito netting, hand sanitizer and condoms, since the disease can be transmitted sexually.

Ten Massachusetts residents have been infected with Zika. All of the cases have been connected to overseas trips, primarily to Latin America and the Caribbean.