Photo: Universal History Archive/UIG/Getty
The governor of Florida confirmed Friday that the state likely has four locally transmitted cases of theZika virus.
“We learned today that four people in our state likely have the Zika virus as a result of a mosquito bite. All four of these people live in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties and the Florida Department of Health believes that active transmissions of this virus could be occurring in one small area in Miami,” Gov. Rick Scott announced in a news conference.
In a Friday statement, the Florida Department of Health says they have “gathered enough information” as part of an ongoing investigation to conclude that “a high likelihood exists that four cases are the result of local transmission.”
The department believes the infected area is just north of downtown.
The Florida Department of Health writes that “no mosquitos trapped tested positive for the Zika virus,” but “the department believes these cases were likely transmitted through infected mosquitos in this area.”
Public health officials say covering your skin, wearingbug sprayand getting rid of standing water can protect you from mosquitos.
In order to avoid being bitten this summer, here is a list of the best bug sprays for warding off the zika-spreadingAedesmosquitos, according toConsumer Reports:
Each of the top picks contains a different key ingredient: picaridin, DEET and a derivative of eucalyptus. DEET, an active ingredient in many insect repellants, has been used since the 1940s. According to theU.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, DEET is safe for pregnant women and young children.
And here’s the best way to use mosquito repellants, per the CDC:
Protecting your home from mosquito populations is also important. Remember toget rid of standing water. Birdbaths, flowerpots and clogged gutters all make for excellent mosquito breeding grounds.
source: people.com
