Prevention of Bug-Borne Illnesses

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

Vector-Borne Illnesses

Vector-borne diseases are human illnesses caused by parasites, viruses and bacteria spread from insects. 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.

For More Information

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