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Amid Zika fears, Florida theme parks offer mosquito repellent

“Long trousers, long sleeves, bug spray on the the clothes, on exposed limbs”, says south Florida expecting mom, Amanda Paradiz who goes through extensive lengths to make sure she is protected against mosquitos carrying the Zika virus.

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The Sun Sentinel reported Saturday that Walt Disney World will start giving out free insect repellent throughout its resort Sunday as a precaution against the Zika virus.

Zika causes a mild illness in most people but can lead to severe brain-related birth defects if women are infected during pregnancy.

Walt Disney World, Sea World and Universal Orlando are spearheading the movement in hopes of sidelining any fears tourists may have of being exposed to Zika-carrying mosquitoes.

Scott spokeswoman Jackie Schutz said the governor has “talked to numerous attractions and theme parks”. There will also be spray cans in hotel rooms.

Disney is also adding signs informing guests how to protect themselves against Zika.

“Our parks already have robust mosquito control programs in place to ensure the health and safety of our guests, team members and animals”. SeaWorld will provide it at its three Orlando theme and water parks, along with Busch Gardens and Adventure Island in Tampa.

It probably was only a matter of time, but mosquito repellent has joined hand sanitizer as a must-have health accessory at Florida theme parks.

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These preventative measures come on the heels of reports of Zika in Miami and Pinellas County.

A community worker at the Wynwood Community Service Center right hands out insect repellent in Miami. Orlando's major theme parks will also offer free bug repellent to visitors as a precaution against Zika infection