Traci Moyer

tmoyer@newsleader.com

Prescriptions for insect repellents are now covered in Virginia under Medicaid and other qualifying plans.

In an effort to fight the Zika virus, the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS), in partnership with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), said the cost of bug sprays are now covered through a prescription.

Six other states have also approved the coverage for insect repellants under similar terms for Zika virus protection. The Zika virus, which can be spread through mosquito bites, can cause birth defects in infants through women infected while they are pregnant, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

People enrolled in Medicaid, FAMIS, FAMIS MOMS and the Governor’s Access Plan (GAP) qualify for the coverage, according to a press release from VDH. Governor Terry McAuliffe approved the coverage this week “in preparation for the possibility of local transmission of the Zika virus,” the press release states.

In February, McAuliffe created a statewide task force to help fight the spread of the Zika virus. Since then, state and local officials have monitored mosquitoes and programs to control mosquito-borne illnesses to prevent the transmission of the virus, according to VDH.

“Should local mosquito-borne transmission of the Zika virus occur, VDH will be prepared to provide repellent to people living in a designated local transmission area,” the press release states.

Health department officials say people should contact their pharmacy to make sure they are participating the prescription coverage and then call a health provider to have a prescription sent to the pharmacy for a repellent.

“Individuals do not need an office visit only to request a prescription for repellent,” according to the press release.