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.
Last Updated 11/21/2024