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Disney giving out free insect repellent to help keep visitors safe from Zika

By WFTV - Orlando
By WFTV - Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. — As the number of locally transmitted Zika virus infections continues to increase in Florida, Disney World has started to give all visitors and cast members free insect repellent.

Disney announced the move on the Frequently Asked Questions section of its website as an answer to park goers' questions about how to protect themselves from Zika.

“In an abundance of caution, we are taking additional measures and preventative efforts throughout our property, including providing complimentary insect repellent for guests and cast members,” the post said.

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Susan Conway came prepared when she visited Disney World over the weekend.

"This is what we were told, to put wipes (on her two sons). After 20 minutes left dry, then put the sun tan lotion on top," she said.

Conway was in Florida from Great Britain with her husband and two sons.

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Other Disney guests weren't concerned about getting Zika, but appreciated what Disney was doing.

"I think it's good, it's a good thing to protect people from that," Victoria Strickland said. "For me, I'm not worried about it."

Disney said it was vigilantly tracking Zika infections in the state in an effort to keep visitors informed.

“At this time, the Florida Department of Health has reported that there are no reported cases of active transmissions of the Zika virus in the Orlando area and counties surrounding Walt Disney Resort,” the company’s website said.

Other tips Disney gave for the prevention of mosquito bites (from the CDC):

  • Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks to cover skin, when possible.
  • Use Insect Repellent:
  • Always follow the product label instructions.
  • Reapply insect repellent as directed.
  • Do not spray insect repellent on the skin under clothing. Apply insect repellent to bare skin and clothing.
  • For those using sunscreen, apply sunscreen before applying insect repellent.
  • According to the CDC, insect repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are effective, for adults, when used as directed.

For Babies and Children:

  • Always follow instructions when applying insect repellent to children.
  • Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months old.
  • Do not apply insect repellent onto a child's hands, eyes, mouth, and cut or irritated skin.
  • Adults: Spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child's face.
  • Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children under 3 years old.
  • Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs.
  • Cover crib, stroller, and baby carrier with mosquito netting.

Cox Media Group

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