A local dermatologist says repellants containing DEET can fight off the Zika and West Nile viruses, along with other mosquito-borne illnesses.

Greenwich-based dermatologist Dr. Kim Nichols says repellents are the first line of defense against the possibility of Zika this summer.

She says that people who use repellants with DEET should shower once they are inside for the day, since the ingredient can be harsh for the skin.

"Ten to 30 percent is recommended for kids two months and older, and for adults, 30 percent," says Dr. Nichols.

She says repellents designed for clothing are typically stronger, so they should not be applied directly to the skin,

Dr. Theodore Andreadis, the head of the Connecticut Argicultural Experiment Station, says if the Asian tiger mosquitos in Connecticut end up carrying Zika this summer, it is important to know they bite during the day.