This may sound a bit extreme, but I can promise you it is not. Mosquitos are known as the deadliest creatures in the world. They transmit life threatening diseases and have tormented humans for centuries now. Millions have been infected and suffered or died because of this animal. Mosquito bites, illnesses, and deaths are not only present in third world countries; the World Health Organization, or WHO, recently reported that more than 50 percent of the world’s population is presently at risk from mosquito-borne diseases. On February 9, the main island of Hawaii declared a state of emergency when they had an outbreak of Dengue Fever. Venezuela has the Zika virus spreading in uncontrollable rates. Statistics from the Ministry of Health show that Malaria is still the leading cause of death in Uganda. These are all great indicators that despite technology and education, mosquitos are still causing a major threat to people’s health.
Mosquitos are the primary vectors for major human diseases such as Yellow Fever, Malaria, Dengue Fever, and now the Zika Virus. Why, you may ask? What makes this insect a primary culprit? As it turns out, mosquitos are very effective transmitters of disease causing agents, not the diseases themselves, not that I really see a major difference in distinguishing between the two….When a mosquito feeds, it punctures the skin and injects saliva into a person’s skin like a needle would. This allows the disease-causing agent to be injected at the site, right into the human body. Since mosquitoes fly, the disease is spread way more quickly than an illness such as Ebola, or any other one that is transmitted from person to person.
So, how can the average Joe protect themselves from harm? It is said that 40% of people do not use insect repellent. Now, that is a big mistake! Here is a list of what the experts recommend to fight mosquito bites:
Wear insect repellent!
Whether you choose to use a DEET powered or a more alternative natural product, wear something! It is the number one method of avoiding bug bites. The strength of the DEET will dictate how many hours you may remain protected. If you choose the natural route, make sure your repellent consists of citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, or a combination of them all, and reapply as needed. Carefully follow the directions on the labels. If you do not follow the label, you can harm yourself, your family, or the environment.
Use a fan!
With the use of a fan, the mosquitos are less likely to have the power to land and bite. Using a ceiling fan, or sitting by a fan when outdoors will highly lessen your chances of being bitten.
Wear comfortable, light, yet skin covering clothing
If you know you are headed into mosquito infested territory, put on some light, long sleeved attire to protect your skin. Although mosquitos can bite through clothing, it acts as a barrier and is less likely.
Use Caution With Sitting Water
Keep your property as water-free as possible! If you’re not using your swimming pool, keep in fully chlorinated to avoid breeding mosquitoes in their larval stage. Make sure all gutters are free and clean to eliminate water from collecting and providing another breeding ground for mosquitoes. Pay attention to any open containers outdoor such as garbage can covers, potted plant dishes, and birdbaths. It only takes a week for mosquito’s to complete a life cycle. Their reproduction rate is off the charts!
Use Mosquito Traps, But With Caution!
Mosquito killing devices work, but they also attract the insect to your home! So, if you decide to use them, place them far away from your house or where you congregate such as front doors or outside patios.
Use Screens
Most importantly, If you are leaving your windows or doors open, make sure they all have tight-fitting screens on the outside. There is nothing worse than mosquitoes flying around your head when you are trying to sleep or eat. Check your screen enclosure porches or front entrance ways for rips or tears in the screen that can allow for bugs to enter. When fully intact, screens can protect your home from these disease laden insects, and allow your time in the outdoors pleasurable.
It is inevitable to presume that we will never come in contact with mosquitoes, but it is best to be fully prepared. Many homeowners install screen enclosures or pool cages which are rated for 150mph in Florida, for this main reason: To eliminate mosquitoes interfering with their family time around the pool, or when enjoying outdoor meals. You can then enjoy nature while at the comfort of your own home, without being forced to wear special clothing or insect repellant.