Debugging the Myths: Zika Facts & Tips

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by Mom It Forward on June 30th, 2016 | No Comments »

Have you heard of the Zika Virus? Zika is a virus spread by mosquitoes that is dangerous and needs to be prevented. Experts advise that taking preventive measures is still the key to combat the virus outbreak. This virus has really serious outcomes if you become infected. There is still no vaccine or prophylactic treatment available in the markets thus the number of birth defects, complications and even death cases have been increasing in the past years.

With summer upon us and family vacations, barbecues, and trips to the lake planned we all need to be informed and educated about Zika and what we can do to prevent it.

RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) is the national association focused on creating inspiring and healthy places where we live, work, and play. RISE works to educate people on the responsible use of pest control products such as personal repellents and pesticides used on lawns and gardens, playing fields and parks, and inside homes and other structures, as well as mosquito control. RISE created debugthemyths.com, a resource hub designed to answer common questions about repellents and pesticides and to serve as a place to ask questions and learn more about controlling common pests in your yard and community.

Facts

Here are some facts and prevention tips on how your family and community can help prevent the Zika virus:

It’s important for you to know the genesis of this virus, how it can be transmitted, what are the symptoms that you should be vigilant about, and how can it be prevented and treated.

The Zika virus is primarily spread to people who are bitten by infected Aedes aegypti and albopictus mosquitoes - the same type of mosquito that carries dengue fever or yellow fever.

Zika virus can be transmitted through mosquito bites, pregnant women who become infected with Zika virus can transmit the disease to their unborn child, sexual contact and blood transfusion.
The most common symptoms of the Zika virus are fever, headache, rash, joint and muscle pain, and red eyes. But many people do not show symptoms, so those infected with the virus may not know they have it.
In order to prevent the virus outbreak, make your yard less hospitable to mosquitoes.

Preventive tips to keep your family safe from Zika virus

Put up personal barriers:
- Wear light-colored clothing and cover up with long sleeves and pants and consider repellent-treated clothing treated with EPA-approved pesticides.
Reinforce your home:
- Make sure the screens on your windows and doors are in good repair and close all windows and doors to remove any entry points for mosquitoes.
Apply mosquito-specific defenses:
- Apply EPA-approved insect repellent on exposed skin, especially your legs. EPA-approved personal mosquito repellents will provide reliable protection and are safe for children and women who are or are planning to become pregnant.
Eliminate standing water:
- If you have areas or items in your yard that collect water when it rains, don’t forget to remove them, so they don’t become a mosquito breeding site.

In a nutshell, cliche as it may sound, prevention is still better than cure. If you have any of the symptoms of the virus, don’t hesitate to immediately consult your doctor or healthcare provider.

To learn more about Zika and how to protect yourself and your community please visit: http://www.debugthemyths.com/

Check out these other great posts with tips and tricks to keeping your family and home safe from Zika and bug free: