Mosquitoes and Ticks: What You Need to Know

Mosquitoes around the home

Female mosquitoes feed on blood. Different species are active at different times, so protection matters during the day as well as in the evening. Small pools of standing water, such as those in plant saucers, can become breeding sites around your home.

• Empty standing water regularly and check window and door screens.
• Choose clothing that reduces exposed skin.
• When choosing a personal repellent, check that the label lists mosquitoes and tells you how long protection lasts. Use room treatments only in the areas stated on their labels.

Ticks: protection outdoors

Ticks can come into contact with people and animals in grassy or bushy areas. They are not insects, unlike mosquitoes. To help protect yourself, choose your route carefully, wear suitable clothing and check yourself when you return.

• Stay on paths where possible and wear long clothing to cover more of your skin.
• Check your body and clothing when you return from outdoors.
• When choosing a repellent, check that ticks are listed and apply only to areas permitted by the label. Do not spray repellent onto an attached tick.

What to do if a tick attaches

Do not pour cologne or chemicals onto an attached tick. If you cannot remove it safely, seek medical help promptly. If unusual symptoms develop afterwards, tell a healthcare professional about the tick contact.

Houseflies in the home

Houseflies gather around food and organic waste and can enter through open doors and windows. Cover food, clean up food scraps, keep bins closed and check your fly screens. A housefly repellent for the skin is different from a treatment for rooms or surfaces. Check the label for the pests and areas each product is intended for.