Prevent Mosquito Bites

This is how you can protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites.

Use Insect Repellent

To reduce the risk of mosquito bites, use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents containing one of the following active ingredients:

• DEET
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the U.S.)
• IR3535
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
• Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone

When used correctly, EPA-registered repellents are safe and effective, including for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals. The EPA's search tool can help find the right repellent.

Guidelines for Babies and Children

• Dress children in clothing that covers their arms and legs.
• Use mosquito netting over strollers and baby carriers.

When applying insect repellent on children:

• Follow label instructions carefully.
• Do not use products containing OLE or PMD on children under three years old.
• Avoid applying repellent to hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin.
• Adults should apply repellent to their hands first before gently applying it to a child’s face.

General Repellent Application Tips

• Always read and follow product label instructions.
• Reapply repellent as needed and directed.
• Do not apply repellent under clothing.
• When using both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply sunscreen first, followed by repellent.

Natural Repellents

The effectiveness of non-EPA-registered natural repellents is unknown. To ensure protection from mosquito-borne diseases, CDC and EPA recommend using an EPA-registered repellent. Choosing an EPA-registered product ensures that it has been tested for effectiveness.

Wear Protective Clothing

Wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants provides an additional barrier against mosquito bites.

Treat Clothing and Gear

• Treat clothing and gear (boots, pants, socks, and tents) with 0.5% permethrin or purchase pre-treated items.
• Permethrin-treated clothing remains protective after multiple washes.
• Check product details for durability and effectiveness.
• Follow application instructions when treating items.
• Do not apply permethrin directly to the skin.

Controlling Mosquitoes Indoors and Outdoors

• Install screens on windows and doors, repairing any holes to keep mosquitoes outside.
• Use air conditioning when available.
• Prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs by eliminating standing water.
• Once a week, empty, scrub, turn over, or cover objects that can collect water, such as:
  • Tires
  • Buckets
  • Planters
  • Toys
  • Pools
  • Birdbaths
  • Flowerpots
  • Trash containers
• Regularly check for water-collecting containers both inside and outside.

Preventing Mosquito Bites While Traveling

Travelers should take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, as mosquitoes can transmit viruses and parasites that are uncommon or absent in the continental United States, such as:

• Chikungunya
• Dengue
• Dirofilariasis (dog heartworm)
• Japanese encephalitis
• Lymphatic filariasis
• Malaria
• Rift Valley fever
• Ross River virus
• Yellow fever
• Zika virus

Preparing for Travel

Before traveling, check the latest disease risks and prevention methods. If visiting an area where malaria is present, consult a healthcare provider about preventive medication.

Packing Essentials:

• EPA-registered insect repellent
• Long-sleeved shirts and pants (mosquitoes can bite through thin fabric)
• Permethrin-treated clothing and gear (boots, pants, socks, tents)
• Mosquito net (for sleeping outdoors or in places without window and door screens)

Keeping Mosquitoes Out of Lodging

• Choose accommodations with air conditioning or screened windows and doors.
• If air-conditioned or screened lodging is unavailable, use a mosquito net when sleeping.

Using Mosquito Nets

A mosquito net is essential when sleeping outdoors or in rooms without screens, as mosquitoes bite both day and night.

Choosing the Right Net:

• Purchase a compact, white, rectangular net with 156 holes per square inch.
• Ensure the net is long enough to tuck under the mattress for full coverage.
• Permethrin-treated nets provide additional protection.
• Follow label instructions to determine if a treated net can be washed.

Proper Use of Mosquito Nets

• Hang the net over a bed or crib for protection.
• Tuck the net under the mattress or crib to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
• Ensure nets for cribs are long enough to reach the floor or tuck securely.
• Pull the net tight to eliminate sagging and reduce choking hazards for young children.
• Secure the sides of the net using hooks or ties if it sags toward the sleeping area.
• Inspect for holes or tears where mosquitoes could enter.

Important Safety Tips:

• Keep nets away from candles, cigarettes, and open flames to prevent fire hazards.
• Avoid direct contact with the net while sleeping, as mosquitoes can bite through it if holes are present.

Taking these precautions helps reduce the risk of mosquito bites and related diseases, both at home and while traveling.