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Zika Virus
Local transmission of Zika virus occurred in both Florida and Texas in 2016. Although there are many communities in California where the mosquitoes capable of transmitting Zika have been found, the disease has not been spread locally. This year, 67 California residents (Source:
http://bit.ly/2spj5To) have acquired Zika virus while travelling abroad. It is important to always protect yourself from mosquito bites wherever you may be.
What you can do to help keep invasive Aedes mosquitoes out of Alameda County:
- Inspect your yard regularly and remove any clutter or containers that may hold water.
- If you store water, make sure all containers are tightly covered to keep mosquitoes out.
- Scrub outdoor containers that have held water with hot, soapy water to kill mosquito eggs.
- Wear mosquito repellent when spending time outdoors.
- Do not bring home items that have held standing water (tires, containers, bromeliads, bamboo, etc.) from areas with invasive Aedes mosquitoes. Click here to see areas in California with invasive Aedes.
If you will be traveling to an area with Zika virus:
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Use insect repellent. Look for these ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or para-Menthane-3,8-diol (PMD). Reapply often, as directed on the product label. Remember to apply sunscreen first and then insect repellent.
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Cover exposed skin when possible.
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Stay and sleep in screened-in rooms or use a bed net.
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Watch for symptoms after you get home.
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Call your doctor immediately if you suspect Zika.
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Use insect repellent for 3 weeks after travel.
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Use condoms when you have sex for at least 6 months.
Pregnant? Trying to conceive?
Zika is linked to birth defects. Pregnant women should consider postponing travel to any area with Zika. If your male partner travels to these areas, either use condoms or don't have sex for the rest of your pregnancy.
Additional Resource from the CDC
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