Chances are that you have heard of Zika. The virus is causing concern in several states in America and in different countries around the world. The good news is that there are ways that you can protect yourself from the virus that are relatively simple.
Follow these tips to keep yourself safe from Zika.
Mosquito Bite Prevention
No one wants mosquito bites in the first place, but now that Zika is around, people really don’t want insect bites. The mosquitoes that spread Zika bite primarily during the day, but can bite at any time.
Prevent bites by using an insect repellent. Permethrin can be sprayed on your clothing, but don’t use this chemical on your skin. You can also wear a “bug band” around your wrist.
Make Travel Plans
Before you decide to travel out of the country, check the CDC’s website to find out where Zika has spread. Your best bet is to choose an alternate destination if your first is known to have an outbreak of the virus.
Sexual Intercourse
Zika is not only transmitted by mosquitoes. Those infected with the virus can pass it to others during sexual intercourse. Though Zika is still being studied, it is known that the virus lives in semen longer than in other bodily fluids.
Not having sex will eliminate your risk of getting Zika from someone else. Condoms will reduce your chances greatly. To be considered effective, a condom must be worn prior to any genital contact.
Protect Others
If you have already contracted Zika, it is up to you to protect others. Take steps to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes, do not have unprotected sex with any other person, and tell those close to you that you have the virus.
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