What You Should Know About Zika

Many travelers and even athletes are canceling flights for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Health officials are saying it’s still safe to travel there, but one should keep the following tips in mind.

Check Your Destination

Check the CDC to see if your destination is affected by the Zika outbreak. Most of the areas affected are in South and Central America, in addition to some islands in the South Pacific. If you’re pregnant, it’s recommended you cancel your travel plans to prevent the birth defect microcephaly.

Mosquito Prevention

Zika is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, so it’s important to take steps like wearing long sleeves, using insect repellent and even wearing permethrin-treated clothing (though this isn’t effective in Puerto Rico). If you’re using sunscreen, let it dry before applying repellent. For sleeping, find a hotel that’s screened in and air-conditioned or use a mosquito net.

Safe Sex

Zika can also be spread through vaginal, anal and oral sex, with the CDC advising people to either abstain or correctly use a condom to prevent transmission to their partner. The flu-like symptoms can take weeks to appear so it is important to always practice safe sex and minimize risk.