Mosquitoes Are Deadlier Than You Think. Here's How to Protect Yourself This Summer.

Mosquitoes are more than an annoyance. The CDC says they are the deadliest animal in the world, and this time of year, they are out in force.

About 200 species of mosquitoes live in the continental United States and U.S. territories, and while most are just a nuisance, around a dozen of those species can spread serious illnesses, including dengue, West Nile virus, Zika, chikungunya, and malaria. The catch is that you cannot tell whether a mosquito is making you sick when it bites.

Dr. Conor McMeniman, a researcher with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, says mosquitoes find their targets in stages. "First they smell you, then they see you, and then they sense the warmth from your skin, and then eventually land on you," he said. Summer is prime time for them to breed, particularly after rainfall leaves behind puddles and standing water where they lay their eggs.

The good news is that a few practical steps can significantly reduce your exposure. McMeniman says to start at home by eliminating any standing water, whether in potted plant bases, clogged gutters, or drainage areas, because that is where mosquitoes reproduce. Window screens are another simple line of defense.

When you are outdoors during peak mosquito hours, typically dawn and dusk, cover up with long sleeves and pants. And when it comes to repellent, McMeniman advises skipping the natural or homemade options and choosing one that is EPA-registered instead. "Because they're being tested for safety and also efficacy against mosquitoes found in the United States," he said.

The bottom line, in his words: "It's important to protect ourselves against mosquitoes and enjoy a bite-free summer."