How Can I Protect Myself and My Family From Mosquito Bites?

There is no vaccine for West Nile virus (WNV). The only way to protect yourself is to keep mosquitoes from biting you. Follow these steps every summer if you live in or visit an area with mosquitoes:

• Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, if possible, since this is the time when mosquitoes are most active.
• If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants.
• Use a mosquito repellent that contains DEET (the chemical N-N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) and follow the directions on the label. DEET can be toxic if overused. Never use DEET on infants. Avoid using repellents with DEET concentrations above 10-15% for children and with concentrations above 30-35% for adults. Cream, lotion or stick formulas are best. Avoid products with high amounts of alcohol.
• Most mosquito repellents will remain effective for many hours, so it is not necessary to reapply the repellent. Once inside, wash off insect repellents thoroughly with soap and water.
• Take special care to cover up the arms and legs of children playing outdoors. When you bring a baby outdoors, cover the baby's carriage or playpen with mosquito netting.
• Fix any holes in your screens and make sure they are tightly attached to all your doors and windows