Important Facts About The Zika Virus

There has been a lot of talk lately about the ZIKA virus.  We wanted to provide a few reliable resources for you to make yourself aware of the risks and how you can protect yourself from potential risks.  We want you to know what the ZIKA virus is, how it is contracted, how to know if you have it, and ways you can protect yourself.

What is the ZIKA virus?
Currently, it is an extremely rare virus that is spread through mosquito bites.   It does require medical lab diagnosis and if treated is a short-term illness for most grown adults.  The virus is known to cause birth defects in pregnant women.  There is no known cure at this time.

How can I get it?
The virus is transmitted through mosquitoes or other insect bites.  It can also be transmitted through unprotected sex. 

How do I know if I have it?
Typical symptoms include mild fever, joint pain, rash, and red eyes.  The symptoms may only last a week.  There are occasions where no symptoms may be experienced.  

How can I protect myself?
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has a list of registered insect repellent products that can help prevent misquote bites.  Each of these has been evaluated by the EPA.  We stock the Cortex Bug X product which is EPA registered and allows the Deet to be released in a more precise manner to allow the user to get longer-lasting performance in a lower Deet formula.  

Other quick facts about the ZIKA virus
 

• Currently no known vaccines exist to prevent you from getting the Zika virus. 
• The CDC recommends that we avoid mosquito bites where possible. 
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants 
• Stay in places where it is cool and dry and screens are used to keep out mosquitos. 
• Believe it or not, mosquitoes that spread the Zika virus are most likely to bite during daytime hours. 
• If you are overseas and sleeping outdoors, use a mosquito bed net.
• Use an EPA-registered mosquito repellent with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon, or para-menthane-diol.