Insect Safety

Warmer temperatures are not just attractive to people, but to mosquitoes and ticks. Whether you are going on a camping trip, planning an outing to the Cape May County Park and Zoo, or just enjoying your own back yard make sure your experience is fun and safe.
Drawing of tweezers removing tick from skin
Insect Bite Prevention
Bite prevention starts with knowing what to do before going outdoors:
  • Avoid any scented soaps, or fragrances that may attract insects.
  • Put on a long sleeve shirt, long pants, and socks particularly at dusk and dawn.
  • Use insect repellent and follow instructions carefully.
  • Wear light-colored clothing.
Tick on a finger
See a doctor if you see a bulls-eye rash, which sometimes appears with Lyme disease infections. Review how to prevent Lyme disease (PDF).

Did You Know?
Ticks need to be attached for at least 24 hours to transmit harmful disease.
Lyme disease skin rash
Mosquitoes
Although very small in size, mosquitoes can spread serious illnesses. West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus that the mosquito can pass on to humans and animals by biting them. Find out more on West Nile Virus and what Cape May County is doing to help prevent the spread of disease.

If you’re concerned about mosquitoes in your area, the Cape May County Department of Mosquito Control can help!