The US Department of Health and Human Services on Thursday announced it would provide $742,000 to health centers in American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands to help address the Zika virus.
The announcement comes after the House advanced a conference report to the Senate last night that would provide $1.1 billion with about $750 million offset. Democrats say they were cut out of negotiations and don’t support the bill.
The money from HHS will go to three health care centers, the department says.
“We are working to learn as much about the Zika virus as we can, as quickly as we can, and make sure the public is informed about the steps they can take to minimize their risk, as well as the risk to their families and communities, of getting Zika.” HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell said in a statement.
“Our goal is to reduce the risk of Zika virus, especially among pregnant women and women of childbearing age.
“We are taking the necessary steps now, like today’s funding announcement to support Zika preparedness and response efforts.”
