Mosquito Bite Prevention
The instense itching of a mosquito bite can drive you crazy. Although mosquito bites are mostly just annoying, mosquitoes carry malaria and other diseases in some parts of the world. Female mosquitoes bite because they need blood for the development of their eggs and they sometimes appear to favour particular people.
If you are unlucky enough to get eaten alive by mosquitoes every summer, what measures can you take to help stop the bloodthirsty little suckers from having a feast on you?
Mosquito Repellents
There is a vast selection of topical mosquito repellents on the market, which when sprayed, rolled, wiped or rubbed onto uncovered skin are effective in keeping mosquitoes and other biting insects at bay.
Mosquito repellents containing the chemical pesticide Deet (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) provide effective protection from insect bites. When using Deet products, take care to follow usage instructions.
Fly Screens
Fit mesh fly screens to doors and windows. Insect screens are made to measure or trim them yourself to the desired size. Adhesive strips or hinges are used to fit fly screens to door and window frames to let the fresh air in and keep mosquitoes out.
Mosquito Nets
Mosquito nets stop mosquitoes biting you when you are sleeping, Mosquito nets impregnated with insecticide offer extra protection. Suspend a net above your bed, or choose a portable, freestanding net when travelling. Mosquito nets are available in various shapes and sizes, including for prams and pushchairs.
Plug In Mosquito Repellents
Plug in mosquito repellents plug into the mains power supply. The plugs are filled with insecticide liquid or tablets, which release insect-repelling vapours into the air. Liquid and tablet refills for plugs are widely available.
Mosquito Smoke Coils
Mosquito smoke coils are for outdoor use and should not be used indoors. The coils release an insecticidal smoke which repels biting insects. Smoke coils are particularly useful for keeping insects away when sitting outside in the evenings and for preventing insects entering through doors and windows.
Insect Repellent Wristbands
Wrist bands impregnated with insect repellent may provide protection against mosquitoes. Wristbands are perhaps a more convenient alternative to messy insect repellent creams and sprays. Wristbands can also be worn around ankles or attached to bags and pushchairs.
Avoid Attracting Mosquitoes
Cover up with clothing as much as possible by wearing loose trousers, long sleeves and socks. Mosquitoes can bite through tightly fitting clothes. Wear light colours – it is thought mosquitoes are more attracted to dark colours. Hairspray, deodorants and perfumes make you more attractive to mosquitoes – use unscented toiletries. Try to avoid going outside at sunset and at night; this is when many species of mosquito are most active.
For more information about how to prevent mosquito bites, visit www.avoidmosquitobites.com.
The copyright of this article is owned by Sharon Kirby. Permission to republish this work must be granted by the author.