LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 27, 2016) – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that preventing mosquito bites is the best way to avoid infection from Zika virus disease. Transmission of Zika virus has mainly occurred through the bite of an infected mosquito, though it can also occur through sexual contact with an infected male person. While most people infected with Zika virus disease may not have symptoms, Zika has been linked to birth defects. Pregnant women, or those planning to become pregnant, should avoid travel to areas with known Zika transmission. Pregnant women, or those who could become pregnant, should properly use condoms or abstain from sex with men returning from travel to an area with known Zika transmission.
Currently, Maryland has had several confirmed cases of Zika virus infection – all have been related to travel in areas of ongoing transmission such as the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central and South America. While the type of mosquito known to transmit Zika virus disease is native to Maryland, at this time it does not yet appear that local mosquitoes are carrying the Zika virus. This could change; however, as mosquito season starts and more local persons are carrying the infection due to recent travel or sexual exposure.
The best way to prevent Zika virus disease is to protect yourself from mosquito bites and to eliminate mosquito breeding areas near your homes. Mosquitoes can breed in something as small as a bottle cap. Just a few infected mosquitoes can be a large public health risk to the community.
By following these safety measures, you can eliminate mosquito breeding areas and protect your family and your community from mosquitoes and potential disease:
- Eliminate standing water in and around your home. Once a week, empty, scrub, cover or throw out items that hold water.
- Keep mosquitoes out of your home. Use screens on doors and windows, and use air conditioning when available.
- If you have a septic tank, repair cracks or gaps and cover open vents or plumbing pipes.
- Prevent mosquito bites. Use an EPA-registered insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol. For a list of EPA-registered insect repellents, visit epa.gov
For more information about Zika virus disease, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/zika or the St. Mary’s County Health Department website at www.smchd.org/zika. To learn more about mosquito-proofing your surroundings, visit the Maryland Department of Agriculture website.
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