Preventative Steps to Avoid the Zika Virus Here and Abroad

The Zika Virus has been a real concern for those who live in or travel to areas where lots of mosquitoes are present. While it hasn’t been widely spread throughout the United States yet, there are still some important steps to take to protect oneself and their family from contracting the virus. When traveling to countries where the virus is prevalent, one must be extra cautious to avoid infection. It’s also important to understand some basics about the virus and exactly how the it spreads to ensure that proper precautions are taken.

The Zika virus wasn’t a concern until recent years and most people had never heard of it before. It’s spread mostly from the bite of a certain species of mosquito, the Aedes, which bites during the day and night. The virus can also be spread by men through unprotected sex. The virus can cause serious birth defects in children born to mothers infected with the virus. It can also be very serious for those with weak immune systems like young children and seniors. As of right now, there are no treatments or vaccinations for Zika. It has recently been found in a certain area of Miami but is mostly concentrated in Central and South America.

To prevent the virus, it’s most important for pregnant women to avoid going to infected areas if at all possible. When traveling in areas where Zika is common, you should wear long sleeve shirts and long pants to protect the extremities. Clothing should be light colored, which will not only help you see any mosquitoes that may land on you, but can also help keep you cool in these warmer climates. Always carry a quality bug spray and use it often, as directed. For children, be sure to apply the spray regularly. When using spray with young children, don’t spray anywhere near the mouth, nose or eyes, and don’t use these sprays with children under 2 months of age. Always apply your insect repellent over sunscreen if you’re using both.

If you are camping, sleeping outside or visiting one of the areas where Zika is present, you should always use a mosquito net. These are affordable and easy to carry with you. They help to surround you at night for added protection. Keep windows closed when possible and use screens when windows are open. When you return home after traveling to an infected area, you should closely monitor your health for any symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain or red eyes. Many people who contract the virus will have very mild symptoms or none at all. It’s important that you talk with your doctor about the virus as it can be spread from an infected person to other mosquitoes and then other people. The test for Zika is a simple blood or urine test. 

If you live in an area where Zika has been found, you can do some things around the home to deter mosquitoes from nesting and staying near your house. Remove any planters, pots or other things that provide standing water for mosquitoes to lay their eggs. If you have a large container that can’t be removed, and won’t be used for drinking, you can treat it with an product designed to prevent the hatching of mosquito eggs. If you see mosquitoes near your house, a spray designed for outdoors will kill many of them. There are also plants that deter mosquitoes that you can plant in your yard if you prefer a non-chemical solution.

Staying cautious can help you avoid the Zika virus. The best way is to simply not travel to infected areas. This is especially true for women who are currently pregnant or are trying to get pregnant in the near future. If you must travel to these areas, take the previously mentioned steps to protect yourself and avoid bringing the virus back to areas that weren’t previously dealing with a Zika problem.

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