Zika Virus: The Risks to Workers

Most people have probably heard of the Zika Virus, but what do you know about it? Awareness has increased during the course of 2016, since it has presented issues domestically, as well as abroad.

The illness is transmitted primarily through bites from an infected mosquito, which is why it is important to keep the public informed, now that we’ve entered the summer months.

Did you know that the mosquito that carries the Zika Virus bites mostly during the daytime?

Therefore, those who work outside during the day should take greater care to protect themselves. This may include wearing long sleeves and pants, where able.

If workers are unable to do so, though, they should be sure to use an insect repellant registered by the Environmental Protection Agency that contain one of the following active ingredients:

DEET

Picaridin

IR3535

Oil of lemon eucalyptus

Para-menthane-diol.

The CDC also notes that you can wear clothing or gear treated directly with a chemical called permetherin to help repel mosquitoes. While permetherin should not be used directly on the skin, it will last on clothing after multiple washes.

See https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/index.html for more details.