Prevent Mosquito Bites

The best defense is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Use Insect Repellent


Apply on exposed skin when you go outdoors. Use an EPA-registered insect repellent such as those with DEET, picardin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always read and follow all directions and precautions on the product label.

Wear Long Sleeves & Pants


When possible, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors. Mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, so spraying clothes with repellent containing permethrin or DEET will give extra protection. Do not apply repellents containing permethrin directly to skin. Do not spray repellent containing DEET on the skin under your clothing.

Fight the Bite Day & Night


Dusk and dawn are peak biting times for many species of mosquitoes. But mosquitoes can bite at any time. Use repellent and protective clothing whenever you spend time outside, even if it's not evening and early morning.

Install or Repair Screens


Even if it looks small, fix any rips or tears in screens on windows and doors. Make sure screens fit so mosquitoes don't get in between gaps.

Drain Standing Water


Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets, barrels, and other containers near your home. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when not in use.

  1. Vector Control Office & Lab

    Physical Address
    3220 W Gibson Lane
    Suite 500
    Phoenix, AZ 85009