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  2. Insect Repellents

Risk of Disease from Mosquito and Tick Bites

Insect repellents can help reduce the risk of mosquito, tick, and biting fly bites, which can transmit diseases. Diseases carried by mosquitoes include: 
Related Information
  • Using insect repellent products to protect against dengue
  • Locations where Zika transmission has occurred in the United States and other areas
  • Zika
  • West Nile Virus
  • Malaria
  • Encephalitis (several types)
  • Yellow fever
  • Dengue fever
  • Chikungunya virus
  • Oropuche
Ticks carry diseases such as:
  • Lyme disease
  • Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
  • Ehrlichiosis
  • Encephalitis

The links above are to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Search the CDC website for information on any other insect-borne diseases that you may have heard about.

For information about public health insect control in your area, contact your:
  • State or local health department.
  • Cooperative extension service office.
Other resources for information on public health, disease control, and mosquito control include the following:
  • Mosquito Control
  • List of Pests of Significant Public Health Importance
  • West Nile Virus Resource Guide 
  • Reports from Tick-Borne Disease IPM Conferences Search EPA Archive
  • EPA Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP) Partners:
    • Lyme Disease Association (LDA) - Offers information about this non profit organization whose goals are education, prevention, and research funding. Includes articles on ticks, vaccines, and other useful information. 
    • American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) - Organization enhancing the health and quality of life through the suppression of mosquitoes, other vectors and pests of public importance.

Insect Repellents

  • About Insect Repellents
  • Tips to Prevent Mosquito Bites
  • Tips to Prevent Tick Bites
  • Finding the Right Repellent for You
  • Using Repellents Safely and Effectively
  • Ingredients in Skin Applied Repellents
  • Regulation of Skin Applied Repellents
Contact Us About Insect Repellents
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on August 28, 2024
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