Activity

Use Insect Repellent

Use EPA-registered insect repellents with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. Find an EPA-registered insect repellent that’s right for you.
The effectiveness of insect repellents not registered with the EPA, including some natural repellents, is not known.
How to Apply Insect Repellent: Always follow the product label instructions.

Reapply as directed.
If you are also using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first, and insect repellent second.
Do not spray repellent on the skin under clothing.
Application Instructions for Children

Do NOT use insect repellents on babies younger than 2 months old.
Dress babies younger than 2 months old in clothing that covers arms and legs, and cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
Do NOT use products containing OLE or PMD on children under 3 years old.
Do NOT apply insect repellent to children’s hands, eyes, mouths, cuts, or irritated skin.
Do NOT spray into a face. To apply insect repellent to your child’s face, spray into onto your hands, then rub it on their face.
Keep insect repellent out of the reach of children.
Permethrin: Treat clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents) with 0.5% permethrin (an insecticide). You can buy pre-treated clothes or treat your own clothes. If treating items yourself, follow instructions carefully. Do NOT use permethrin directly on skin.

Cover Exposed Skin: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Some bugs, such as tsetse flies, can bite through thin fabric.