Zika—a mosquito-borne virus that can cause serious complications in developing fetuses—has made its way into the United States. Protect yourself and your community by preventing mosquito bites, planning for travel and using protection during sex.
- Avoid travel to areas known to have local transmission of the Zika virus (view the CDC’s complete list)
- Prevent mosquito bites:
- Cover exposed skin with long sleeves and pants
- Wear light-colored clothing (mosquitoes prefer dark colors)
- Use an insect repellent that contains 25% DEET or 20% Picaridin
- Apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent
- Consider treating clothing and gear with permethrin
- Screen in windows and doors and repair holes to keep mosquitoes out of your home
- Use air conditioning when available (mosquitoes like hot environments)
- Drain standing water by emptying, turning over or throwing out items that hold water
- Prevent Zika from spreading through sexual contact by using barrier contraceptives, like condoms
Resources
Healthy South Texas Communication Resources
Texas A&M University Health Science Center
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention