The easiest and best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites.

This summer’s wet weather has created favorable conditions for increased mosquito breeding. Mosquitoes can spread diseases like EEE and West Nile Virus, so it’s especially important to take steps to protect yourself and your household from mosquito bites. 

Avoid Mosquito Bites

• Apply insect repellent when outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)], or IR3535 according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under 2 months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under 3 years of age.

• Be aware of peak mosquito hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur in the evening or early morning.

• Wear clothing that covers your skin. Wearing long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors can help prevent bites. 

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

• Drain standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by draining or discarding items that hold water: Check rain gutters and drains, empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change the water in birdbaths frequently. Pet owners should eliminate standing water from containers such as water bowls, buckets, tires, and wading pools, especially after heavy rains. 

• Install or repair screens. To keep mosquitoes outside, make sure you have tightly fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.

To learn more, visit mass.gov/dph/mosquito or call the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Epidemiology Program at 617-983-6800.