Cruise lines working with pregnant women on rescheduling, cruise credits in light of Zika virus

As the cases of Zika virus in the U.S. grow, people in Northeast Florida are voicing their concerns.

Some 14 people now have the virus in Florida, including one local case in St. Johns County.

Travel agent Scott Lara said he’s received about 30 calls from clients in the past month asking if they’ll be safe to go on their planned trip.

“As of now, it hasn't affected my business and the travel agents I talk to, it really hasn't affected it. However, the travel industry is very sensitive to this and we want to make sure travelers feel safe,” said Lara.

Lara said he gives advice to his clients about what they should pack, such as mosquito repellent, since the Zika virus can be spread by mosquitoes.

He also said some cruise lines he’s spoken with are being lenient with pregnant women, allowing them to reschedule travel plans, since the Centers for Disease Control put out a warning asking them to avoid South and Central American countries and some in the Caribbean.

“If someone's pregnant, they need to call the travel agency or cruise line and it's a case by case basis. If someone is currently pregnant, they will try to give you future cruise credits or move you to a different itinerary,” said Lara.

Lara said he’s going to continue to keep up with the latest on Zika so his clients stay informed.

Cox Media Group