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Five tips to avoid Zika Virus

The most effective way to protect yourself from the Zika virus is to prevent mosquito bites. As there are no vaccines for it, so you need prevention. Here are a few tips to avoid Zika virus.

Pick the right mosquito repellent

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends products with active ingredients DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, picaridin, or IR 3535.

Apply it correctly

Bug spray should be applied after sunscreen (otherwise, your SPF may mask it). Don’t wear repellent under clothes; it won’t evaporate and may accumulate on the fabric. Avoid spraying it on cuts or wounds.

Importantly, don’t forget to spritz your feet and ankles. The mosquito that carries Zika virus, the Aedes variety, has a particular attraction to feet.

Repel with your clothes

You know the drill for avoiding mosquitoes: long pants, long sleeves. Get extra protection with clothing containing permethrin, a synthetic insecticide. Since Aedes mosquitos have an appetite for your feet, stick to shoes with full coverage (not sandals) and socks.

This is also not a good time for yoga pants—mosquitos can easily bite through Spandex. Generally, baggier clothes offer better protection. Protect your head with a hat and sunglasses.

Prep your home

The Aedes mosquitos feed during the day and fly into houses for shade, living and reproducing very close to people.

Just one tablespoon of water can serve as a mosquito breeding ground and produce up to 300 mosquitoes. Eliminate standing water throughout the home, including in flower pots, bottles, and accumulating garbage.

Exercise indoors

Break a sweat inside. Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide and heat. Your body naturally emits both, but cranks up the volume when you work out.

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