The 3 D

The 3 D’s of Protection from Mosquitoes

Drain: Many mosquito problems in your neighborhood are likely to come from water-filled containers that you, the resident, can help eliminate. All mosquitoes require water in which to breed. Be sure to drain any standing water around your house.

Dispose of any tires. Tires can breed thousands of mosquitoes.
Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers.
Clear roof gutters of debris.
Clean pet water dishes regularly.
Check and empty children’s toys.
Repair leaky outdoor faucets.
Change the water in bird baths at least once a week.
Canoes and other boats should be turned over.
Avoid water collecting on pool covers.
Empty water collected in tarps around the yard or on woodpiles.
Plug tree holes.
Even the smallest containers that can collect water can breed hundreds to thousands of mosquitoes. They don’t need much water to lay eggs (bottles, barrels, buckets, overturned garbage can lids, etc).

Dress: Wear light colored, loose-fitting clothing. Some mosquito species are attracted to dark clothing and some can bite through tight-fitting clothes. When practical, wear long sleeves and pants.

Defend: Choose a mosquito repellant that has been registered by the Environmental Protection Agency. Registered products have been reviewed, approved, and pose minimal risk for human safety when used according to label directions. There are currently four repellants that are approved and recommended:

Deet (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide)
Picardin (KBR 3023)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-methane, 3, 8-diol, or PMD)
IR3535

Here are some rules for using repellants:

Read the directions on the label carefully before applying.
Apply repellant sparingly, only to exposed skin (not clothing).
Keep repellants away from eyes, nostrils, and lips; do not inhale or ingest repellants.
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that DEET-based repellants can be used on children as young as two months of age. Generally, the AAP recommends concentrations of 30% or less.
Avoid applying repellants to portions on children’s hands that are likely to have contact with eyes or mouth.
Pregnant and nursing women should minimize the use of repellants.
Never use repellants on wounds or irritated skin.
Use repellants sparingly and repeat application as needed. Saturation does not increase efficacy.
Wash repellant-treated skin after coming indoors.
If a suspected reaction to insect repellant occurs, wash treated skin, and call a physician. Take the repellant container to the physician.

http://www.cdc.gov/Features/WestNileVirus/

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