Preventing Mosquito and Tick Bites

Spending time together outdoors is good for the whole family. Don’t let mosquito and tick bites ruin your fun.

Most bug bites are harmless, but some mosquitoes and ticks spread germs that can make you sick. Some of these germs are very serious – and may even be deadly.

When you spend time outside, take these steps to protect yourself from mosquito and tick bites:

• Use insect repellent (also called bug spray) on your skin and clothing.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to cover your skin.
• Check everyone for ticks after spending time outside.
• Check your pets for ticks every day, especially after they’ve been outdoors.

Keep mosquitoes and ticks out of and away from your home.

• Use screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes outside. Repair any holes in the screens, and don’t leave doors propped open.
• Empty and scrub, turn over, or cover items near your home that can hold water.
• Clear bushes, tall grasses, and fallen leaves from around your home.

If you are bitten by a tick, use tweezers to remove it as soon as you see it.

• Grab the tick near its head or mouth (the part closest to your skin).
• Gently pull the whole tick straight out. Be careful not to crush or twist the tick.
• Clean your hands and the tick bite with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
• Get rid of the tick by putting it in rubbing alcohol or flushing it down the toilet.

If you or your child gets a rash or fever after getting bitten by a tick, call your doctor. Tell the doctor about the tick bite, when it happened, and where you think you were when you got the bite.

Source: https://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/parenting/safety/prevent-mosquito-and-tick-bites