Zika virus infection prevention

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Nate Michalak, B.A.

Overview

There are no vaccines available to prevent Zika virus infection. Since the virus is usually transmitted through mosquitoes, effective measures to avoid mosquito bites include using insect repellent, installing mosquito bed nets and window/door screens, wearing long sleeves and long pants, and removing potential breeding sites from indoor/outdoor premises. Once infected, individuals may be re-infected in the future.

Prevention

• There are no vaccines against Zika virus.
• The only effective way to prevent Zika virus infection is to avoid mosquito bites:

• Use insect repellent.
  • Products containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol provide the longest lasting protection.
  • If using sunscreen and insect repellent, apply sunscreen first.
  • Treat clothes with permethrin.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants.
• Use air conditioning or window/door screens to keep mosquitoes from entering inside. If this is not possible, sleep under a mosquito bed net.
• Empty standing water containers (e.g. flowerpots or buckets) to reduce potential for mosquito breeding sites around home.