Prevent Mosquito Bites

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites

• Limit the amount of time you spend outdoors at dawn and dusk.
• Use EPA-registered insect repellent labeled as effective against mosquitoes. Apply repellent when you are going to be outdoors, especially at dawn or dusk.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
• Treat clothing and gear with permethrin. 
• Cover baby carriages or outdoor playpens with mosquito netting.
• Fix any holes in your screens and make sure they are tightly attached to doors and windows.
• Get rid of standing water outside your home. 

Learn more about mosquito bite prevention (CDC)

Control Mosquitoes at Home

Remove Standing Water 

Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water that lasts more than four days. To reduce the number of mosquitoes around your house, get rid of standing water:

• Dispose of, or regularly empty, any metal cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, and other water holding containers (including trash cans) on your property.
• Dispose of, or regularly empty, discarded tires.
• Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers that are left outdoors so water can drain out.
• Clean clogged roof gutters of leaves and debris that prevent drainage of rainwater.
• Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
• Change bird bath water every three to four days.
• Aerate ornamental ponds or stock them with fish.
• Keep swimming pools clean and properly chlorinated.
• Remove standing water from pool covers.
• Use landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property.

Kill Mosquito Larvae

• Use larvicides to treat large bodies of water that will not be used for drinking and cannot be covered or dumped out. Larvicides come in the form of dunks, bits, tablets, pellets, granules, briquettes, and liquids. When using larvicides, always follow label instructions.

Learn more about mosquito control at home (CDC)

Insect Repellents

Insect repellents can provide protection against both mosquitoes and ticks. Use repellents that are registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These products have been evaluated for their safety and effectiveness. Look for the EPA-registration number on the label. 

Find an EPA-registered insect repellent (EPA)