Mosquito Protection Tips

Protect Yourself

The best way to protect yourself is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Use personal protection while outdoors when mosquitoes are present. To reduce your chances of being bitten by mosquitoes:

• Wear light colored clothing, long-sleeved shirts or jackets, and long slacks.
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure. Protect small children when outdoors.
• Avoid mosquito-infested areas or stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active. Many mosquitoes are most active two to three hours before and after dusk and again at dawn when the air is calm. This is the time when the females are most likely to bite. However, some species will feed at any time of the day.
• Avoid physical exertion, and use colognes and perfumes sparingly as these may attract mosquitoes.
• Consider the use of a mosquito repellent, according to directions, that contains DEET (not to exceed 30% for adults and 15% for children) when it is necessary to be outdoors.
• Put size 16 mesh screens on all doors and windows and keep them in good repair.

Additional Considerations

In addition to wearing repellent, you can protect yourself and your family by taking these precautions:

• Wear clothing with long pants and long sleeves while outdoors. Apply permethrin or another EPA-registered repellent to clothing, as mosquitoes may bite through thin fabric. (Remember: don't use permethrin on skin.)
• Use mosquito netting over infant carriers.
• Reduce the number of mosquitoes in your area by getting rid of containers with standing water that provide breeding places for the mosquitoes.

For more information, read What You Need to Know About West Nile Virus.