Super Simple Tricks to Protect Yourself Against the Zika Virus This Summer
With the Zika virus epidemic still going strong, it doesn’t look like we can hope for any kind of reprieve for a while yet. Are you worried about possibly catching this mosquito-borne illness this summer? Well, a few simple tricks could help you stay safe and healthy until the danger has passed.
Summer is a popular time to travel and go on vacation, so with the threat of catching the Zika virus hanging in the air, make sure you travel smart this year. Make sure you are up to date on the travel warnings the CDC has issued. The CDC has warned people against traveling to areas where the Zika virus is active. These areas include Central and South America, much of the Caribbean, and other foreign countries.
If you don’t want to change you travel plans entirely, there are still many precautions you can take to protect yourself against the virus even if you are planning on traveling to one of these designated areas. It’s a good idea to stay indoors protected from insects by screens or windows as much as possible in these areas, particularly during the day when the mosquitos that spread the Zika virus are most active. At night, you can sleep under a mosquito net.
It is also a good idea to cover as much skin as possible when going outside. To make things a little more bearable in those hot climates, you can wear layered, loose clothing. You also might want to stick to light colors, as mosquitos are attracted to darker colors. Covering any exposed skin in insect repellent is a must. And make sure you choose bug spray that is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency and contains DEET.
Another thing to take into consideration is the fact that the Zika virus is not solely spread through mosquito bites, but can also be contracted through sexual encounters. Practicing safe sex this summer will protect you against more than just STDs.
What are your summer travel plans? Are you traveling to an area where the Zika virus is active? How are you planning on protecting yourself?
