Warmer weather brings more than sunshine—it also invites mosquitoes and ticks. These tiny pests can carry big risks, like Lyme disease and West Nile virus. Here’s how to enjoy the outdoors without bringing home unwanted bites.
Defend with Repellent
Use EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Apply to exposed skin and clothing (not under clothing or near eyes).
Reapply after swimming or sweating.
Dress the Part
Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants when in wooded or grassy areas.
Tuck pants into socks or boots to keep ticks off your legs.
Consider permethrin-treated clothing for added protection.
Avoid Their Favorite Hangouts
Empty standing water (buckets, flowerpots, kiddie pools) to stop mosquito breeding.
Stick to the center of trails when hiking to avoid tick-heavy brush.
Keep lawns mowed and leaf piles cleared.
Check Yourself!
After outdoor time, do a full-body tick check—especially behind ears, knees, and under arms.
Shower within two hours of being outdoors.
Remove ticks with fine-tipped tweezers—grasp close to the skin and pull steadily.
Did You Know?
Ticks can be active in temperatures as low as 40°F, and mosquitoes can breed in as little as a bottle cap of water!
For more information on staying safe from ticks and mosquitoes in the summer, visit:
nj.gov/health/news/2024/approved/20240618b.shtml