Jenna Buzzacco-Foerster
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is sending seven people to Florida support Zika testing and lab functions.
But Gov. Rick Scott wants more.
On Wednesday, Scott requested more support personnel from the CDC. The governor made the request in order to ensure pregnant women get test results faster, according to the governor’s office.
“While these additional personnel will help to expedite Zika testing, we know that there is an increasing demand for testing throughout our state and we must be prepared to respond,” said Scott in a statement. “That is why today I am requesting the CDC to provide Florida with additional lab support personnel to aid in our testing efforts. I am hopeful the CDC will quickly fulfill this request as our state continues to do everything possible to protect pregnant women.”
Scott is in Washington, D.C., this week to meet with lawmakers about the need for Zika funding. The Naples Republican was scheduled to meet with several members of the Florida delegation Wednesday, including Republican Reps. David Jolly, Gus Bilirakis, and Mario Diaz-Balart; and Democratic Reps. Gwen Graham and Frederica Wilson.
Scott is expected to meet with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Sen. Marco Rubio Wednesday afternoon.
“I will continue to meet with congressional leaders to discuss the need for immediate funding for Zika preparedness,” said Scott in a statement. “I expect Congress and the president to address this national health issue by taking action now.”
