Beware of biting insects this summer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the number of illnesses caused by mosquitoes, ticks and fleas tripled between 2004 and 2016. In addition, mosquitoes and ticks have brought dengue, Zika, Lyme and other viruses to the United States in recent years, spreading nine new germs in the U.S.

To fully enjoy your time outdoors this summer, follow these tips for preventing bites and stings:

• Wear light-colored clothing. Avoid bright floral patterns, as these can attract bees.
• Avoid using scented products like perfume or hairspray.
• Do not walk barefoot outside.
• Wear pants and shirts with long sleeves to cover your skin.
• If you are hiking through tall grass, tuck your pants into your socks so ticks and chiggers can’t hitch a ride.
• Check your body carefully for ticks when you get home. Check your scalp, armpits and behind the ears.
• Remove any standing water around your home to keep mosquitos from breeding. You can also use mosquito dunks in small ponds or water features.
• Use insect repellent.

The most effective main ingredients in repellents are DEET and Picaridin. Use at least 20 percent concentration of DEET, but no more than 50 percent. The higher the concentration, the longer the product will protect you. Use only on exposed skin, not under your clothes. If you hike or camp a lot, consider buying tents and clothes that are pre-treated with permethrin.

Some people are concerned about using chemical repellents rather than natural (botanical) repellents. The Environmental Working Group, after much study, concluded that the benefits of using DEET and Picaridin outweigh the perceived risks. If you would like more information, you can read their findings here.

For more tips on how to protect yourself against these illnesses, visit CDC.gov.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Environmental Working Group
Image: CDC/ Prof. Frank Hadley Collins, Dir., Cntr. for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, Univ. of Notre Dame