How to Prevent Mosquito Bites

Across the country, families are taking advantage of the warmer weather by spending more quality time outdoors. This year, as families prepare to host a variety of outdoor gatherings, mosquito prevention and protecting against mosquito bites should be top of mind.

Mosquitoes transmit numerous diseases and are often described as one of the deadliest animals on the planet.

* Remove all sources of stagnant water.

Standing water can be found in areas such as gutters, buckets, flowerpots and bird baths. Mosquitoes only need 1/2 inch of standing water to breed, so it is essential to minimize these areas to reduce offspring.

* Wear an insect repellent containing DEET or another

EPA-registered ingredient to help prevent mosquito bites.

* Minimize outside activity between dusk and dawn,

Mosquitoes are most active in dusk and dawn. Also take proactive measures during the day to protect against daytime biters like the Asian tiger mosquito, the main carrier of Zika.

* When outdoors, wear long-sleeve shirts, long pants, socks and closed-toe shoes.

* When hosting guests outside, keep the air moving.

Using a fan where you and your guests may lounge makes it less likely mosquitoes will land on you. These pests are not strong fliers, so circulating air can make an outside gathering more pleasant.By following these tips and actively working to prevent mosquitoes on the home front, you will help reduce the risk of you and your family getting bitten by mosquitoes this season.