With the holiday season upon us, you may be planning to travel to visit family and friends or to see different climates. Whatever the reason, it is important to take steps to stay safe while traveling. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website to view any travel notices and to check areas of active Zika transmission. If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, and are considering traveling to a place with ongoing Zika transmission, discuss the potential risks with your healthcare provider before you leave.
While traveling, it is important to avoid mosquito bites: stay in places with air conditioning and window/door screens, wear long pants and sleeves, and use insect repellent. If you are flying, remember the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) only allows liquids and aerosols up to 3.4 ounces in carry-on bags, so pack a small bottle of repellent and pick some up at your destination if you need more.
When you return home to Arizona, take the same steps to avoid mosquito bites for at least three weeks. Preventing mosquito bites after returning home will help stop new diseases, like Zika, from infecting our Arizona mosquitoes. If you experience any Zika symptoms, such as fever, rash, conjunctivitis (red/watery eyes), or joint pain, after traveling, visit your healthcare provider. Remember to tell your provider about your travel history during your visit. With everyone’s help to “Fight the Bite” while traveling and here at home, Arizonans can have a happy, healthy, and Zika-free holiday season.
