PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM MOSQUITOES AND ZIKA VIRUS

 If you have been watching the news you have probably already heard about the Zika Virus. Zika is a mosquito-borne virus that only causes mild, flu-like symptoms in most people. But it can cause severe brain-related defects, including disastrously small heads, if women are infected during pregnancy. Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected mosquito (Aedes) species. These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters. They can also bite at night. The most dangerous thing about Zika is that it can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika at this time.

Personally, this whole mosquito thing has me a "bit" nervous considering, I live in Florida and so very close to the Everglades.  My best recommendation is that if you have young children, just remember the basic rules to try to avoid the dangers of being infected by a mosquito, that may carry the Zika Virus, not only for your kids but for you as well!

The best way to prevent Zika is to prevent mosquito bites.

1.Use EPA-registered insect repellent. It works!
2.Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
3.Stay in places with air conditioning or window and door screens.
4.Remove standing water around your home.

Many areas in the United States have the type of mosquitoes that can spread Zika virus. These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters and can also bite at night. Also, Zika can be passed through sex from a person who has Zika to his or her sex partners.

If you are pregnant - 
If you are pregnant and have a partner who lives in or has traveled to an area with Zika, do not have sex, or use condoms the right way, every time, during your pregnancy.

Pregnant women should not travel to areas with Zika. If you must travel to one of these areas, talk to your healthcare provider first and strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during your trip.

The Florida Department of Health has already identified an area in one neighborhood of Miami, where Zika is being spread by mosquitoes, and most recently, there has been a case reported in Palm Beach, and Tampa, FL as well. Florida’s caseload of Zika spread by Miami mosquitoes has risen to 25, and U.S. health officials continue to warn pregnant women to avoid the infection zone despite the governor’s assurances that the area of concern is shrinking. (Source: Global News)

Florida’s Department of Health says active transmission has been only happening in a 1-square-mile area encompassing Miami’s Wynwood arts district.

If you want to protect your baby/children from mosquitoes, here are some highly recommended Mommy Warrior picks:



(Note: Skin So Soft by Avon, is an excellent cream, especially for those who have sensitive skin.)

Source: www.cdc.gov