You’ve probably heard a lot about the Zika virus from the news. And because scientists recently estimated that we have the highest chance of catching Zika from now until September1,the Teladoc clinical staff is offering tips to reduce your chance of getting the Zika virus:
Pack to Protect2
- If you’re traveling to any region in the U.S. where Zika outbreaks have been reported, make sure to pack a Zika kit that includes bug spray, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and mosquito nets.
- It’s important to reapply insect repellent after you have put on sunscreen.
- Sleep and stay in screened-in as well as air-conditioned rooms. It’s important to use a bed net if you’re going to be camping outside.
Avoid Spread of Zika
- Most people aren’t aware they have the Zika virus. Be on the lookout for various symptoms such as red eyes, joint pains, fever and rash.3
- The Zika virus can be transmitted through sexual fluids4; if you’re sexually active, practice safe sex.
- It’s recommended to limit your time near open bodies of water since this is where Zika-prone mosquitos tend to thrive. Also, use bug spray for three weeks after returning from a vacation.5
- Not all mosquitos carry and transmit the Zika virus. It’s important to avoid Aedes mosquitos that are daytime biters.6
Because the Zika virus can lead to birth defects,7the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends women who are trying to get pregnant or who are pregnant delay their travels to any area impacted by Zika.
This portion of the Teladoc website occasionally offers health, fitness and nutritional information and is provided solely for educational purposes only. You cannot rely on any information provided here as a substitute for or replacement of professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Teladoc cannot assure that the information contained on this site always includes the most recent findings or developments with respect to the particular subject matter covered.
If you ever have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your health-care professional because of something you may have read on this site. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk.
If you are in the United States and think you are having a medical or health emergency, call your health care professional, or 911, immediately.
1. https://www.buzzfeed.com/danvergano/zika-mosquito-may-spread-to-new-york-and-la-this-summer-but?utm_term=.ntn9ZZRqY#.gpp0JJpd5
2. http://www.cdc.gov/zika/
3. http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/zika-virus-symptoms-prevention
4. http://www.cdc.gov/zika/hc-providers/qa-sexual-transmission.html
5. http://blogs.cdc.gov/publichealthmatters/2016/03/zikaandwater/
6. http://time.com/4318624/zika-virus-and-birth-defects-what-you-need-to-know
7. http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/s0325-zika-virus-recommendations.htmll
