Preventing Mayaro

Key points

  • Mayaro virus is spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes.
  • Cases of Mayaro virus disease (Mayaro) are found in parts of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
  • The best way to prevent Mayaro is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Person applying insect repellent

Prevention tips

Mayaro virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes bite during the day and night.

There are no vaccines or medicines to prevent Mayaro.

People who live in or travel to parts of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean where the virus is found should take steps to prevent mosquito bites.

  • Use insect repellent
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants
  • Treat clothing and gear with 0.5% permethrin
  • Choose lodging with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors; use a mosquito net if you will be sleeping outdoors

Additional information about protecting yourself from mosquito bites while traveling is available on the CDC Mosquitoes website.

Print
Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)