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Zika Awareness

Maryland is currently in midst of mosquito season and with the outbreak of Zika virus occurring in many areas including Central America, South America, the Pacific Islands, and the Caribbean comes the opportunity to inform employers and employees about actions we can all take to prevent Zika and other mosquito borne disease spread.

Zika Virus Fast Facts

  • Zika is spread to people:
    • Primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito.
    • Through sexual contact by an infected person to his or her sex partners.
    • From mother to child during pregnancy or around the time of birth.
    • Through blood transfusions.
  • Common symptoms are fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis (red eyes).
  • The illness is usually mild but has been linked to a serious nervous system disorder called Guillain-Barré Syndrome as well as poor pregnancy outcomes which include microcephaly.
  • Only travel-related cases (cases related to a returning or visiting traveler to the continental U.S. from another country) have been identified in Maryland at this time.

Zika and Travel

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that women who are pregnant do not travel to any area where Zika virus is spreading. Women who are trying to become pregnant and their partners should talk to their healthcare provider before traveling about their plans to become pregnant and the risk of Zika virus infection. View up-to-date travel notifications regarding Zika.

Mosquito Control and Bite Prevention

Remember the three D’s:

  • Drain: Regularly inspect your property. Drain any water-filled containers or other areas of standing water around your home.
  • Dress: Wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing. When practical, wear long sleeves and pants.
  • Defend: Properly apply a mosquito repellent that is registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, such as:
    • DEET
    • Picaridin
    • Oil of lemon eucalyptus

For more information about Zika and mosquito control, visit:

For Outdoor Workers, here's how to best avoid Zika.

Zika Virus and Employee Health Recommendations for Outdoor Workers in Maryland

General Information:

Travel Information:

Mosquito Bite Prevention:

Mosquito Control:

Zike and Pregnancy Information:

Additional Resources