There are measurable steps that one needs to take to protect themselves from the Zika virus. If you are taking care of a family member or a friend who is infected with the Zika virus, you would need to take steps to protect yourself from the exposure to the person’s blood and bodily fluids. Below are some tips that will help you, your partner, your family members, your friends, and your community to effectively prevent the Zika virus from spreading.
Zika prevention is not possible without preventing yourself from mosquito bites. The Zika virus usually spreads to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. You also check for areas with risk of the Zika virus. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent mosquito bites, thereby ensuring that effective steps are taken for Zika prevention. One can use the following tips to help prevent the Zika virus:
Use insect repellent
It is suggested to use insect repellents that are registered by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). When used with proper directions, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven effective and safe, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Ensure that you always follow the product label instructions. Also, re-apply the insect repellent as directed, and only spray on exposed skin, i.e., which is not covered by clothing. Also, if you use sunscreen, then always apply the sunscreen first and then apply the insect repellent. This is one of the major Zika prevention steps one can take.
Protection of babies and children
For babies younger than two months old, do not use any insect repellents. Do not apply insect repellent onto a child’s mouth, eyes, hands, and any cut or irritated skin. Always carefully follow the instructions while applying insect repellent to children especially. Also, it’s good if adults first spray the repellent for Zika prevention on their hand and then apply it on the child’s face. Also, ensure that you don’t use insect repellents that contain the oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol as an ingredient on children under three years old.
Protect yourself by wearing covered clothes
Zika prevention is provided by items that contain permethrin such as boots, pants, tents, and socks. Even after washing multiple times, permethrin-treated clothes will protect you effectively. Refer to the product information to know how long the protection will last. Also, make a note to not to use permethrin directly on the skin. Permethrin products have been used for years in some places to seek protection against mosquitoes and to ensure Zika prevention.
Measures to control mosquitoes inside and outside your home
It is important to take preventive measures to control mosquitoes and thereby, ensure Zika prevention as well. Use screens on doors and windows and also repair the holes in screens to keep the mosquitoes outside. Use air conditioning, as and when available. Also, you can sleep under a mosquito bed net if air-conditioned or screened rooms are not available or if you plan to sleep outdoors. Ensure you empty, clean, and scrub all the items that hold water. They may include buckets, tires, planters, or trash containers. Check and clean all areas inside and outside the house where water is stored as mosquitoes lay eggs near water.
