Several governments have issued travel warnings for countries in which the presence of the Zika virus has been confirmed. Barbados is among these countries.

Local hotels, along with health officials, continue to take steps to control the spread of this virus, putting in place preventive and control measures including staff training. The focus is on reducing the presence of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary mosquito species responsible for transmitting the Zika virus.

Pregnant women, and those planning to become pregnant, should continue to be particularly careful because of the possible link between the Zika virus and microcephaly, a birth defect where a baby’s head is smaller than expected.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from mosquito bites:

• Use mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon, eucalyptus or IR3535.  Repellent can be purchased at local supermarkets, pharmacies and convenience stores.
• Use mosquito nets in hotels and other accommodation.
• Burn mosquito coils or candles. Remember to extinguish all candles when leaving the premises or going to sleep.
• Spray rooms with insecticide.
• Set the air-conditioner to a lower temperature at night.
• Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors or in areas prone to mosquitoes.

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