Mosquito Prevention & Control

Mosquito Awareness

Fight the Bite and Help Reduce the Risk of Mosquito-Borne Illness

Mosquito control is a shared responsibility. Local programs monitor mosquito activity, manage control efforts, and provide education and tools to help residents reduce risk. Understanding mosquitoes and how control efforts work can help residents take simple, effective steps to protect themselves and their community. One proven approach is the 3 D’s of Mosquito Protection: Drain standing water, Dress in long sleeves and pants, and Defend with EPA-registered repellent.

Safety Tips During Vector Control Operations

Along with personal prevention steps, residents are encouraged to follow these safety tips when vector control operations are underway:

  • Do not follow or pass trucks actively conducting mosquito control spraying.
  • Watch for posted notices announcing spray schedules and treatment areas.
  • Ensure apiaries are registered with NC BeeCheck.

Residents may choose to stay indoors and close windows during spraying, though this is not required. Treatments are not harmful to pets, but owners may bring animals indoors if preferred.

  1. 3 D's of Protection
  2. Arboviruses
  3. Biology
  4. County Control Measures
  5. Register Bee Hives
  6. Resources

Reduce Your Risk & Protect Yourself From Bites

Residents can reduce mosquito activity and lower risk by following the 3 D’s: Drain, Dress, and Defend. 

Drain

Remove standing water where mosquitoes breed.

  • Empty and scrub items that hold water at least twice a week.
  • Drain tarps and covers, clean gutters, and fix leaks.
  • Cover rain barrels, maintain pools, and fill low spots in yards.

Dress

Wear clothing that helps reduce bites.

  • Choose light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Cover skin with long sleeves, pants, socks, and closed shoes.
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing for added protection (do not apply to skin).

Defend

Use repellents and barriers to avoid bites. Follow repellent labels carefully. Repellents can be used on children 2 months and older and during pregnancy when used as directed.
Learn More About Choosing the Right Insect Repellent Now

  • Use EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD).
  • Avoid peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk when possible.
  • Use fans or mosquito nets in outdoor spaces.