Vector control officers conduct yard inspections throughout the Carmichael Road area in an effort to raise public awareness on how to reduce mosquito breeding grounds. (Photo: Ahvia J. Campbell)

The United States' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) yesterday issued a level two alert to those traveling to The Bahamas advising that they "practice enhanced precautions", as two of the four confirmed Zika cases in New Providence were reportedly transmitted locally.

"Local mosquito transmission of Zika virus infection has been reported on the island of New Providence in The Bahamas which includes the city of Nassau," said the notice issued on the CDC website.

"Local mosquito transmission means that mosquitoes in the area are infected with Zika virus and are spreading it to people.

"Because Zika virus is primarily spread by mosquitoes, CDC recommends that travelers to The Bahamas protect themselves from mosquito bites.

"Sexual transmission of Zika virus is also possible, so travelers are encouraged to use condoms or other barriers to prevent infection or not have sex."

On Monday, health officials announced their findings.

In addition to the four confirmed cases, officials reported 83 suspected cases throughout The Bahamas; eight are pregnant women.

Monday's announcement sent the country from being on a level one watch to a level two alert.

Level three warns travelers against visiting a specific country.

Health Minister Dr. Perry Gomez predicted that because of the new confirmed cases, the entire country would be labeled as a Zika hot spot which could pose a problem for the tourism industry.

"I was informed this morning (Monday) that... a travel advisory would be issued against The Bahamas sometime today if it has not already been done," Gomez said.

"I thought it was a little unfair to say 'The Bahamas', because we've only had Zika in New Providence. We are an archipelago of 130 inhabited islands. It's not scientific to say the entire Bahamas at this moment in time, but there you are, that's how it is."

Taiwan's CDC issued a level two alert for the country on Monday afternoon.

Jayme C. Pinder, Guardian Staff Reporter

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