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The spread of the Zika virus, which has accelerated debates over contraception and abortion in Latin American countries that have been hit hardest, continues in Mexico, where Pope Francis has spent the past week. Mexico’s health department said on Tuesday it has confirmed six pregnant women who are infected with the virus, which came as the pope was about to leave the region after a six-day trip to Central America. The pontiff did not mention the virus during his trip, and the Vatican has yet to issue a statement on the issue. (Pulliam Bailey, 2/17)

Top federal health officials warned Congress Wednesday that they will not be able to effectively carry out a long-term response to the escalating Zika virus crisis if lawmakers don’t provide additional cash – quickly. The National Institutes of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention chiefs also outlined steps that are already underway to combat the emerging Zika virus as they wait for lawmakers to act on an emergency funding request. (Zanona, 2/17)