Ottawa is kicking in almost $5 million – to the global fight against the Zika virus.

Health Minister Jane Philpott has announced the funding – for research into the mosquito-borne virus and for humanitarian aid to countries hardest hit by the epidemic.

Zika has been rampaging through South and Central America, parts of Mexico and the Caribbean.     More than 60 countries worldwide have been affected.

To date, 68 Canadians have tested positive for the virus – mostly travellers to countries where Zika has reached epidemic levels.

Scientists also say some cases have been transmitted sexually – from an infected partner.