WHO responding to fears over Zika

GENEVA (AP) — The World Health Organization has called today's special session on Zika in part to convey its concern about an otherwise mild illness that has sown fear among many would-be mothers in Brazil, who have often responded by covering themselves head-to-toe in clothing in the often hot, largely tropical country or slopped on many coats of insect repellent.

"The possible links, only recently suspected, have rapidly changed the risk profile of Zika from a mild threat to one of alarming proportions," said WHO Director-General Dr. Margaret Chan.

"The increased incidence of microcephaly is particularly alarming, as it places a heart-breaking burden on families and communities."

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the disease is now in more than 20 countries, mostly in Central and South America.