Zika Virus Spreading in U.S.

Expect an unusually warm fall and winter, and with them, no reprieve from the spread of the impending spread of the Zika virus.

In response to cases of Zika reported in Miami-Dade County, Florida, the Center for Disease Control released guidelines in August. Scientists expect the Zika virus to continue to spread for as long as mosquito-borne active transmission continues to take place.

If your community doesn't support a mosquito control program, the CDC has offered these guidelines for what you can do to try to protect yourself. Please bear in mind that these methods are most effective when there are fewer mosquitos to contend with.

From the CDC:

Prevent mosquito bites

Everyone living in or traveling to areas with Zika should take steps to prevent mosquito bites

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

• Use EPA-registered insect repellents that contain one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone. Always use as directed.

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women can use all EPA-registered insect repellents according to the product label. Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months old. Mosquito netting can be used to cover babies under 2 months in carriers, strollers, or cribs to protect them from mosquito bites.

• Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on children under 3 years old.

• Adults: spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face.

• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (boots, pants, socks, tents). You can buy pre-treated items or treat them yourself.

• Stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens.

• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if air conditioned or screened rooms are not available or if sleeping outdoors.

• Take steps to control mosquitoes in and around your home.

Get more tips from the CDC on their website: https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/prevent-mosquito-bites.html