August and September are the peak months for human cases of West Nile virus in Georgia, so precautions need to be taken. The most effective way to avoid any of the mosquito-borne diseases is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. The effective use of insect repellents remains the best way to do this. The CDC recommends using products that contain active ingredients which have been registered by the EPA for use as repellents. The active ingredients DEET, picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or PMD and IR3535 have been shown to provide reasonably long-lasting protection from mosquitoes in scientific studies. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using products containing DEET with concentrations of 30% or less on children as young as 2 months of age. The other approved products are labeled for children above two years of age. Additional techniques for avoiding mosquito bites include wearing loose fitting, light colored clothing and making sure that all screens are in good condition around our homes.