Warmer temperatures in the summer months mean more bugs—and bites and potential illnesses. Beware and learn more about bug-borne illnesses and how to keep your family safe this season. 

Vector-Borne Illnesses 

Everyone—in the United States and around the world—is vulnerable to diseases spread by infected  insects like mosquitoes, ticks and fleas, also called vectors.

Vector-borne diseases are human illnesses  caused by parasites, viruses and bacteria that are transmitted by vectors. Increasing global travel and  urbanization are contributing to vector-borne disease outbreaks in new regions and countries. This  list is not all inclusive. 

• Mosquito 
• Blackflies 
• Fleas 
• Lice 
• Sandflies 
• Ticks 
• Triatome (Kissing) bugs 
• Tsetse flies 

What Can You Do to Protect Yourself? 

Did you encounter a tick? Submit the tick to the MilTICK page for free identification and testing. Other protective measures: 

• Use an Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellent. 
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. 
• Treat items, such as boots, pants, socks, and tents, with permethrin or buy permethrin treated clothing and gear. 
• Take steps to control ticks and fleas on pets. 
• Find and remove ticks daily from family and pets. 
• Take steps to control mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas inside and outside your home. 

*To learn more about keeping your family safe year-round, including prevention, travel guidance, and  published materials, visit Health.mil.

*To read more posts from DHA, visit their M:M Expert Page.