What can people do to prevent mosquito bites?
Here are some tips for avoiding mosquito bites:

Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
Stay in places with window and door screens or air conditioning to keep mosquitoes out.
Use insect repellants and always follow the product instructions.
Reapply insect repellant as directed.
Do not spray insect repellant on skin covered by clothing.
Be sure to apply sunscreen before applying insect repellant.
Use Permethrin to treat clothing and gear. Permethrin is registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as an insecticide for use against mosquitoes, as well many other insects. Clothing treated with Permethrin will remain protective after multiple washes.

If you have a baby or young child:

Do not use insect repellant on babies younger than two months old.
Dress your children in clothing that covers their arms and legs.
Cover cribs, strollers, and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
Do not put insect repellant on children’s hands, eyes, mouths, cuts, or irritated skin.
Adults: Spray repellant onto your hands and then apply to children’s faces.

Show All Answers

1. What is Zika?
2. What are the symptoms of Zika infection?
3. How can somebody get Zika?
4. Is there a treatment for Zika?
5. What is the risk for Zika in Santa Cruz County?
6. What is the County Health Department doing to prepare for Zika virus?
7. What can people do to prevent mosquito bites?