Updated as of: 4-16-2024
1. Preparation for Mosquito Season
Diseases that are spread by the bite of an infected mosquito are called mosquito-borne diseases. Severe cases of mosquito-borne diseases may cause death. The risk that mosquito bites carry varies based on where you are, the type of habitat you live in or work in, the season, and the time of day. In Arizona, mosquitoes spread West Nile Virus, Zika Virus, Dengue, Chikungunya, Malaria, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, St. Louis Encephalitis, and Yellow Fever. The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) has a website with frequently updated information on mosquito-borne diseases that you can view here.
Click the following links for specific information about mosquito-borne diseases in Arizona:
Protect yourself from mosquito bites by:
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Ensuring windows and doors have screens or mesh to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
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Minimize skin exposure and wear clothing that covers your arms, hands, and legs.
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Consider wearing hats with mosquito netting to protect your face and neck.
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Find and use the right insect repellent. Click here to use the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) search tool to find the best repellent for you.
Mosquitos are most active in warm weather and lay eggs in or near standing water. You can help reduce local mosquito populations and protect your home by:
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Filling areas that collect standing water.
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Removing barrels, tires, bottles, and buckets that collect water.
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Placing drain holes in containers that collect water and may not be discarded.
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Remove, cover, turn over, or store equipment in a way that prevents standing water collection.
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Click here to view an infographic of common mosquito breeding sites around the home.
Existing mosquito populations can be treated using well-known methods:
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Larvicides are used in large water bodies that are not used for drinking, where mosquitos commonly lay eggs.
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Adulticides can be used outside the home.
Your risk for certain mosquito-borne diseases changes when you travel. Ensure you take the proper precautions based on your travel destinations by checking the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Traveler’s Health Website early. Click here to search the Traveler’s Health website based on your travel destination. If you need help finding travel information, call 1-800-232-4636.