Health officials warn travelers to take precautions against Zika

Staff report

COLUMBUS

The Ohio Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reminding Ohioans to take special precautions when traveling to countries with active Zika virus transmission during spring break. Zika has spread to about 28 countries and territories, including popular spring break destinations Mexico and Puerto Rico. For information about Zika and the list of CDC travel advisories, visit www.odh.ohio.gov/zika.

To prevent mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission, use EPA-registered insect repellents and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants where and when mosquitoes are most active. Pregnant women may want to postpone trips to areas where the Zika virus is active, said Dr. Mary DiOrio, ODH medical director.

The Zika virus, primarily transmitted through a mosquito bite, also can be spread through a man to his partners by sexual transmission. Men who have traveled to an area of active Zika virus transmission should use condoms every time during sex or abstain from sexual activity if their partner is pregnant.