With Zika in U.S., take precautions
Q. How can I protect myself and my family from Zika and other mosquito-borne illnesses? A. The Zika virus has reached U.S. shores with numerous cases reported in a neighborhood in Miami. Many people who contract the disease never show symptoms (which are generally mild and can include fever, rash and joint aches and pains), but when symptoms do appear, they usually resolve themselves.
Q. How can I protect myself and my family from Zika and other mosquito-borne illnesses?
A. The Zika virus has reached U.S. shores with numerous cases reported in a neighborhood in Miami. Many people who contract the disease never show symptoms (which are generally mild and can include fever, rash and joint aches and pains), but when symptoms do appear, they usually resolve themselves.
Zika's greatest threat is to pregnant women; the disease can cause serious birth defects in babies whose mothers were infected during pregnancy.
Because Zika has no vaccine or cure, experts recommend taking steps to prevent infection, which primarily occurs through a mosquito bite. If you are traveling in an area where Zika has been reported, minimize your time outdoors at dawn and dusk - peak activity times for mosquitoes. Second, wear long sleeves and pants, to prevent any skin contact. Buy clothing treated with permethrin, an insect repellent, or apply it directly to your clothes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommend using products containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (also known as PMD), and Insect Repellent 3535. These all have different chemical concentrations that determine their level of effectiveness, so read their labels before use. Because repellents are not recommended for children under 2, the CDC recommends limiting their exposure during peak activity times for mosquitoes, or using an insect net over the stroller.
Of course, Zika is not the only mosquito-borne illness to be aware of - West Nile virus circulates into our area, and chikungunya and even malaria are threats to our south.
If you are planning to travel to Miami, or any other areas affected by mosquito-borne illnesses, discuss with your physician any precautions you may need to take. Do so as soon as possible; some experts are recommending not traveling at all to certain areas, and for others, you may need additional time to prepare.
- Erik Polan, D.O., practices internal medicine at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.