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Study Finds Mosquito Responsible For West Nile Could Carry Zika Virus

Brazilian researchers say they’ve found another species of mosquito that is able to transmit the Zika virus to humans. That particular mosquito can be found in Arizona.

The Aedes aegypti has been the seen as the main carrier of the Zika virus. A recent study found the widespread Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito could play a role in the epidemic.

Researchers in Brazil collected hundreds of the Culex and found Zika in some. However, more studies need to be done because previous studies have shown Culex may not be good at spreading Zika.

The Arizona Department of Health said that Culex vector is found here, and is typically responsible for spreading West Nile virus. The state experiences mosquito activity in the warmer months, though the highest activity is during the monsoon season, according to Department of Health's website. 

KJZZ senior field correspondent Kathy Ritchie has 20 years of experience reporting and writing stories for national and local media outlets — nearly a decade of it has been spent in public media.