Stay covered if in an area with the Zika virus

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Zika Virus

The Zika virus hit global news recently as it quickly spread from Brazil and north to Mexico. It is a virus spread by the bites of mosquitos. When bitten, the infected person starts to show signs such as rash, fever, red eyes, and joint pain. Typically, it only lasts a week or so. Rarely do cases require hospitalization, but it is a dangerous virus nonetheless. The CDC has warned people about travel to areas of high infection rates, including Brazil. In many of these countries, where the Zika virus continues to affect new people every day, there is limited access and transportation to avoid any 

further spread of it.

Protecting yourself is key with the Zika virus. There are no vaccines for it and there is no medicine to treat it, so the best way to protect yourself is through prevention. Prevention will help you to stay safe if you are in an area where the Zika virus may infect you. Below are some prevention tips to follow:

Stay covered if in an area with the Zika virus

The mosquitos cannot bite you through clothes. If you wear clothes that have long sleeves and long trouser legs, you can lower the risk of bites. The more covered you are, the less likely it is that they will bite.

Use repellant

Repellant is an effective way to keep the mosquitos off of you. Choose a good, safe brand and use it as instructed. Only use it as instructed and an amount that is safe.

Be careful during the day

Typically, the mosquitos that spread Zika virus bite during the day. This is the high-risk time. If you are out during the day, especially in an area where the Zika virus is a threat, then you will want to practice extra caution.

Use mosquito netting

Mosquito netting is a netting that can cover you and through which mosquitos cannot pass. You can use it around your bed if mosquitos have a habit of getting into the home or you can use it outdoors. It is the most effective way to keep them off of you.

If you find that you are infected with the Zika virus, then avoid giving it to others. Care for your health and stay away from mosquitos. Stay away from anything that can cause your blood to infect another person. This means spending a week away and focusing primarily on your health.

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