Every now and then we take a break from our usual legal oriented posts to share some information of local interest that may help the public.
It is getting warmer in Texas, and fast.
Zika virus is a concern to Texans. Although we have not had many issues with this virus, it is important to stay informed and to help stop the spread. You can read “What Texans Need to Know About the Zika Virus” from Texas A& AgriLife Extension by clicking here.
Zika is transmitted from the bite of an infected mosquito. Therefore there are a few things that you can do to help keep yourself safe from Zika. The first is to control your environment to discourage mosquito breeding. Since they like to breed in standing water, get rid of bacteria-laden water that is standing in old tires, flower pots, bird baths and other containers. If you must keep standing water around (in a pet dish or birdbath for instance), clean the container often and change the water (pet water should be completely changed daily for the health of the pets as well).
Next, you need to keep yourself safe from bites. Wearing appropriate clothing (loosely fitting, light colored) and appropriate spray to keep from getting bit will help keep you safe. Try not to go outside or in the woods at times when mosquitoes are most active.
Be careful when you travel to other countries or areas that do have more problems with the Zika virus. And, when you return, be extra careful not to get bit for at least a week. This is because 80% of people who have Zika don’t have symptoms. If you introduce the virus to your community after your trip the chances of the virus spreading increase dramatically. Most people do not know this about Zika.
http://texaszika.org has more information, including tallies of reported cases by county, advisories for pregnant women and travelers, and much more.
Stay safe! Don’t Get Bit! Don’t Give Zika a Biting Chance!
