If you're planning on leaving the country, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a list of guidelines that will prevent you from contracting diseases and viruses such as Zika.
According to the CDC's website, countries where the virus has spread include Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Aruba. For a list of countries that have Zika travel notices, click here.
The CDC advises when traveling to these countries, to avoid getting bit by bugs as much as possible by:
- Spray repellent that contains at least 20% DEET.
- Use products that have Picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus in it.
- Apply sunscreen before insect repellent.
- Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (boots, hats, socks).
If you do get bit by either a tick or a mosquito:
- Avoid scratching the area that was bitten.
- Use calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream on the area that was bitten.
People can get Zika Virus from a mosquito bite. Symptoms of the Zika virus include fever, aches in the joints, and a rash. The virus usually doesn't last for more than a couple of weeks. People often do not die because due to Zika.
