Tennessee Health Department has tips for summer activity
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – The Tennessee Department of Health is reminding residents about steps to take as they spend more time outdoors and in the sun with summer approaching.
The department says preventing tick and mosquito bites is always important but especially so this year with concerns about Zika virus, which can cause birth defect. The agency says apply insect repellant after sunscreen and repeat often. Also wear loose and light-colored clothing and tuck in pants legs and shirts to form a barrier.
To avoid overexposure to the sun, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF rating of 30 or higher, wear a hat and sunglasses and remember the sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
And to avoid dehydrating, drink cold water when you feel thirsty and limit caffeinated and sugary drinks.
