(HealthDay News) -- Insect bites can cause uncomfortable itching, and may transmit diseases such as West Nile virus.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these suggestions to help protect against bug bites:

• Avoid using products with fragrances, including perfumes, hair sprays and scented soaps.
• Keep away from areas that attract insects, such as puddles or blooming flowers.
• Avoid clothing with flower prints and bright colors.
• Use an insect repellent that contains DEET (on children at least 2 months old), but avoid products that combine sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Choose insect repellents that contain 10 percent to 30 percent DEET, or as an alternative, Picaridin.
• Wash off insect repellent when your or your children come back inside.