The Florida Department of Health is investigating a possible non-travel-related case of Zika virus in Miami-Dade County.
According to a news release, the department is conducting an epidemiological investigation in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control.
Zika prevention kits and repellant will be available for pickup at DOH-Miami-Dade and distributed in the area under investigation, the release said.
Zika kits are intended for pregnant women. Mosquito control has already conducted reduction and prevention activities in the area of investigation.
Residents and visitors are reminded that the best way to protect themselves is to prevent mosquito bites through practicing good drain and cover methods:
DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying
• Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
• Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.
• Empty and clean birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week.
• Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
• Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
COVER skin with clothing or repellent
• CLOTHING - Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.
• REPELLENT - Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.
o Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are effective.
o EPA-approved repellent is safe for pregnant women to use.
o Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
COVER doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house
• Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches and patios.
