US Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic added to CDC's Zika virus list

NEW YORK (WABC) -- There is widening concern about the spread of the mosquito-borne 'Zika virus'.

The CDC is now adding the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic to its list of places travelers may want to avoid especially pregnant women.

Zika virus has been linked to brain damage in babies and paralysis in adults.

There are 18 confirmed cases in seven U.S. states.

Four of the cases are in New Jersey and New York, including one in New York City.

CHECK LIST OF ZIKA AFFECTED AREAS