Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes: Outdoor Safety Tips for Dengue & Other Diseases

To protect yourself from dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses, take these outdoor precautions:

* Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks. This will help create a barrier between your skin and mosquitoes.

* Use insect repellent. Choose an insect repellent that contains at least 20% DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Apply insect repellent to all exposed skin, and reapply it according to the directions on the label.

* Empty standing water containers regularly. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so it's important to empty any containers that hold water, such as bird baths, flower pots, and gutters.

* Keep your lawn mowed and your bushes trimmed. This will help reduce the number of hiding places for mosquitoes.

* Install mosquito netting on your doors and windows. This will help keep mosquitoes out of your home.

* Use mosquito traps. Mosquito traps can help reduce the mosquito population in your area.

* Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn. Mosquitoes are most active during these times.

* Cover exposed areas of skin with clothing made from tightly woven materials. This can prevent mosquitoes from biting through the fabric.

_By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of getting dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses._