Protect yourself from mosquito and tick bites this season

Healthy Living
• 21 August 2026

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health advisory after an early and active start to the 2026 West Nile virus season. With several weeks of warm weather still ahead, now is a good time to take steps to protect yourself and your family from mosquito and tick bites.

Mosquitoes and ticks can spread diseases such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease and alpha-gal syndrome. While most people recover, some can become seriously ill, especially older adults and those with weakened immune systems.

You can lower your risk by taking a few simple precautions:

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
• Wear long sleeves and pants in areas where mosquitoes and ticks are common.
• Treat clothing and outdoor gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin.
• Avoid walking through tall grass, brush and leaf litter when possible.
• Check yourself, your children, pets and outdoor gear for ticks after spending time outside.
• Shower within two hours of coming indoors to help remove ticks before they attach.
• Make sure window and door screens are in good condition to keep insects out of your home.
• Empty standing water around your home at least once a week. Mosquitoes can breed in even small amounts of water.

Taking these simple steps can help you enjoy the outdoors while reducing your risk of mosquito- and tick-borne illnesses.

Learn more about protecting yourself and your family on the CDC's website.