TPA launches Zika awareness campaign in advance of summer travel

May 2, 2017
Zika FIS

Summer is almost here. For Florida, that means more travelers, more heat, more rain … and more mosquitoes.

Tampa International Airport, in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is doing its part to help prevent the transmission of Zika, a virus spread primarily through mosquito bites. Zika outbreaks are happening all over the world, including parts of Florida and areas to which we have direct flights. TPA is launching a Zika awareness campaign to help prevent the spread of Zika among our travelers and our community.

Passengers and guests at TPA may notice new digital messages and other signage around the Airport, including at Visitor Centers, the USO and Traveler’s Aid desk. The Airport will also be providing free, travel-sized, EPA-registered samples of insect repellent for international arriving passengers at the CBP Visitors Center at Airside F [photo attached], as well as providing repellant to our Airfield Maintenance staff and other employees who are prone to mosquito bites. All news convenience shops will stock insect repellent for sale as well.

Tampa International Airport and the CDC urge the traveling public to learn more about Zika, including how to prevent contraction and transmission, and remember these important prevention tips:

  • Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors and always use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents
  • Stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside
  • Use insect repellent for 3 weeks after travel
  • Do not use insect repellents on babies younger than 2 months; use mosquito netting over cribs and carriers when appropriate
  • Watch for symptoms such as red eyes, fever, joint pain and rash, and call your doctor if you suspect you may have Zika

For more information about Zika, go to www.cdc.gov/zika.

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