How to Protect Yourself Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases

The Medford Board of Health and Massachusetts Department of Public Health urge residents to be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne diseases and take precautions to prevent mosquito bites that could develop into serious illnesses. Diseases like West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) will continue to be a threat in Massachusetts until the first frost of the year. 

WNV and EEE are most commonly transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The mosquitoes that carry these viruses are common throughout the state, but WNV is particularly prevalent in mosquitoes in the Greater Boston region right now, including Medford. Most people infected with WNV will not become seriously ill, however, people above the age of 50 years old are at a higher risk of developing severe illness.  

By taking easy precautions, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquito-borne diseases: 

Avoid Mosquito Bites 

• Apply Insect Repellent when you go outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin.  

• Clothing Can Help reduce mosquito bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors can help keep mosquitoes away from your skin. 

• Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak active times for many mosquitoes. When risk is increased, consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning. If you are outdoors at any time and notice mosquitoes around you, take steps to avoid being bitten by moving indoors, covering up and/or wearing repellant. 

Mosquito-Proof Your Home 

• Drain Standing Water. Many mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or getting rid of items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools and change water in birdbaths frequently.   

• Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly fitting screens on all your windows and doors. 

More information about mosquito-borne diseases, protections, and case numbers can be found at www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito.