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Prevention of mosquito-borne illnesses

Personal protection
Since there is no direct treatment, control of the diseases relies upon preventing transmission to humans or breaking the virus cycle in nature. Transmission prevention involves significantly decreasing the probabilities of mosquito bites. Preventive measures includes avoiding outdoor activities after dark, when the mosquitoes are most active, wearing protective clothing (long sleeves and pants, etc.), and using repellents that contain DEET as its active ingredients. Note that special care must be taken when applying concentrated repellents to children, and particularly, infants, because high concentrations of the active chemicals may be absorbed through the skin. DEET concentrations as low as 35 percent have been found to be effective in preventing mosquito bites, as long as the formulation persist on the individual.

Reducing mosquito populations
Interrupting the virus cycle involves significantly reducing the mosquito populations. This is achieved through spraying of insecticides to directly kill adult and/or immature mosquitoes or, preferably, by elimination of mosquito breeding sites to prevent populations from ever reaching high levels.

How to use DEET safely

• Do not apply over cuts, wounds or irritated skin.
• Do not apply to hands or near eyes and mouth of young children.
• Do not allow young children to apply this product.
• Use just enough repellent to cover exposed skin and/or clothing.
• Do not use under clothing.
• Avoid over-application of this product.
• After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water.
• Wash treated clothing before wearing it again.
• Use of this product may cause skin reactions in rare cases.
• Do not spray in enclosed areas.
• To apply to face, spray on hands first and then rub on face. Do not spray directly onto face.

Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory

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Volusia County, Florida.