Everyone is at risk of being bitten by mosquitoes and ticks and getting sick from the germs they can spread. Several of the mosquito and ticks species found in Florida are capable of transmitting diseases to humans, horses, and other animals. Symptoms of these illnesses can range from mild to very severe.
Mosquitoes
Mosquito-borne diseases found in Florida include West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and St. Louis encephalitis. Many other mosquito-borne diseases are found in different parts of the world, and can be brought back to Florida if infected people or animals are bitten by mosquitoes while in Florida, such as chikungunya fever, dengue fever, malaria, yellow fever, and Rift Valley fever.
Prevention information flyers are available in English, Español, and Kreyòl Ayisyen.
Mosquito Bite Prevention
Drain and Cover
DRAIN standing water
- Drain water from garbage cans, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flowerpots, or any other containers where sprinkler or rainwater has collected.
- Discarded old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances, and other items that aren’t being used.
- Empty and clean birdbaths and pet water bowls at least once or twice a week.
- Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
- Maintain swimming pools in good condition and ensure they are appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
COVER your skin
- CLOTHING – If you must be outside when mosquitoes are active, cover up. Wear comfortable shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves.
- REPELLENT – Apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label.
- Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
COVER doors and windows with screens
- Keep mosquitoes out of your house. Repair damaged screening on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
Use Insect Repellent
Use EPA-registered insect repellents with one of the following active ingredients. When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- DEET
- Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the United States)
- IR3535
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)—A plant-derived ingredient
- Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
- 2-undecanone—A plant-derived ingredient
Prevention Resources
It’s important to practice mosquito prevention and control measures to prevent illness.
- Mosquito Prevention Flyer: English | Spanish | Creole
- Drain and Cover Brochure: English | Spanish | Creole | Portuguese | French
- Prevent and Stop Mosquitos Door Hanger: English | English/Spanish | Spanish
- Mosquito Bite Prevention in Rural Areas: English
- Mosquito Bite Prevention for Overseas Travelers: English | Spanish
For Kids
Ticks
Preventing tick bites is the best way to reduce the risk of tick-borne disease. Ticks are typically found in wooded areas or areas with long grass. Spring and summer are the most common seasons, but tickborne diseases can occur throughout the year in Florida. Ticks feed on the blood of animals and can spread diseases through their bites, such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and babesiosis.
Ticks in the early stages of life (larva stage) usually feed on small animals like mice and birds. Older stages of ticks (nymphs and adults) can feed on humans and larger animals.
Tick Bite Prevention
Be Smart in a Wooded Area
View types of ticks and areas they are most commonly found.
- Walk in the center of paths and trails
- Perform regular tick checks on yourself, family, and pets
- Shower as soon as possible after coming indoors (preferably within two hours)
- Keep grass, shrubs, and trees close to your residence trimmed
Most people are infected by nymphal stages during the spring and summer.
Nymphs are often small enough to escape notice and so can stay attached longer than adults, increasing risk of disease transmission.
General Tick Life Cycle
may vary depending on tick species
Use Insect Repellent
Use EPA-registered insect repellents with one of the following active ingredients. When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- DEET
- Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the United States)
- IR3535
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)—A plant-derived ingredient
- Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
- 2-undecanone—A plant-derived ingredient
Check for Ticks
After spending time in an area where ticks may be present check your body and your child’s body for ticks. Use a hand-held or full-length mirror to check the entire body.
Pay special attention to feet and legs, as some ticks are small enough to crawl through socks and into shoes. If you find any ticks, remove them immediately.
To prevent ticks on dogs and cats, consult with your veterinarian to determine what tick prevention products are recommended for your pet.
Check Theses Areas For TIcks
