Mosquito Prevention

If not currently flooded, drain any standing water left in your yard by Hurricane Harvey so mosquitoes have less of a chance to multiply and spread viruses such as Zika or West Nile.

Protect Yourself.

  • Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts while outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn.
  • Use insect repellent that contains DEET.
  • Children should use insect repellents that contain less than 10 percent DEET.
  • Do not apply DEET on babies.
  • Adults should use insect repellents that contain more than 10 percent DEET.

Keep the storm sewers clean to reduce mosquito breeding.

  • Sweep up lawn clippings, leaves and limbs from sidewalks, driveways, curbs and gutters.
  • Don’t let lawn water or car washing water enter the street.
  • Pick up litter and other debris from your yard and the street.

Keep the mosquitoes out of your house.

  • Keep doors and windows closed.
  • Seal cracks and gaps in the house.
  • If mosquitoes are in the house, use flying insect spray, following label instructions.

Other actions to prevent mosquito breeding.

  • Empty, remove or dispose of anything in the yard that can hold water: flower pot saucers, cans, toys, litter, rain barrels, plastic sheeting, etc.
  • Pet water bowls and birdbaths should be emptied and refilled at least twice a week.
  • Keep the rain gutters on you house clean and properly draining.
  • Repair household water leaks, move air conditioner drain hose frequently.
  • Report water and sewer main leaks and breaks to 311.

For more information: HoustonHealth.org