Chief medical officer Dr. Joann Schaefer is warning Nebraskans about the dangers of ticks and mosquitoes.

Ticks can cause a number of diseases, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease. To avoid insect-related illnesses, take precautions.

Schaefer says a good way to avoid both ticks and mosquitoes is to wear insect repellent. FDA-approved insect repellents are DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535.

She says it's also a good idea to wear solid shoes and socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirts when appropriate. She said to avoid ticks, tuck your pants into your socks.

Dusk and dawn are the favorite times for mosquitoes.