Tips for preventing mosquito and tick infections

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently shared that there’s been a dramatic increase in illnesses in the U.S. related to mosquito, tick and flea bites. But this problem isn’t just confined to the U.S. – globally, there’s rising concern about the spread of infectious diseases such as Lyme disease, Zika virus and West Nile virus.

Ecolab has partnered with several customers to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne infections. In 2016, Ecolab introduced a mosquito program in North America that was highly successful. Dr. John Hanlin and Dr. Joelle Olson also have conducted several webinars on the Zika virus and have collaborated with the CDC on infection prevention information.

Dr. Hanlin and Dr. Olson have these tips to avoid being bitten:

1. Use insect repellent that contains DEET or picaridin.
2. Check for and remove ticks daily from family and pets.
3. Apply flea and tick control products to protect pets.
4. To reduce mosquito and tick activity indoors, run ceiling or portable fans, use window screens and keep doors closed.
5. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Treat items such as boots, pants, socks and tents with permethrin-based products or purchase permethrin-treated clothing and gear.