Mosquito bites are a real nuance to humans.
They bite to feed on human blood. Although there are several vaccines and
medications to defend against mosquito-borne diseases such as yellow fever or
malaria, the best protection against these diseases is to protect ourselves
from their bites.
But the real reason behind protecting
ourselves from bites is that some mosquito-borne diseases such as chikungunya
or dengue are not treatable. Here are some effective ways to reduce the chances
of being bitten and defend yourself against mosquitoes.
Know
When Will Bites Happen
Although mosquitoes can bite any time of
the day, the hours when they will bite the most can be known to a certain
extent. Dengue and chikungunya carrying mosquitoes tend to bite during the day.
While those that carry malaria, tend to bite either at dusk or dawn or at
night.
Aedes, the mosquito that spreads Zika virus
bites during the day and night as well. So if you are in an area affected by
Zika virus, it is essential to protect yourself from its bit at all times. In
tropical and subtropical areas, mosquito bites happen from April to October end
every year.
Stay
Indoors As Much As Possible
Staying indoors in a good precautionary
measure against mosquitoes. This is most beneficial for children, babies and
old people if there are a lot of mosquitoes around or its mosquito season.
Know Where Mosquitoes Hide
Mosquitoes mostly hide and rest in tall
grasses and bushes near inhabited areas such as buildings or homes. And most
frequently they breed in the stagnant water of ponds, pools, uncovered water
bucket(s) etc.
Wear
The Right Clothing
Wear clothing that covers most of the
exposed skin to avoid the chances of being bitten. For example, wear
full-length pants, full-sleeved shirts, boots and socks. The shirt needs to be
tucked in and open footwear like sandals or slippers need to be worn. An
anti-mosquito fabric roll can also be applied to the clothing.
Light
Up Anti-Mosquito Sticks
When spending time in the garden or
backyard, light up DEET-free and non-toxic mosquito
repellent sticks to get instant protection for many hours against
mosquitoes. These release less smoke as compared to mosquito coils and are
naturally fragrant.
Mosquito-proof
Each Room
Defend against mosquitoes by
mosquito-proofing each room. This can be done by using an air-conditioner and
installing insect-proof screens on windows and doors. Additionally, spray a
mosquito repellent inside the room.
Protect
The Bed
If there is no air-conditioner or
insect-proof screens, the bed can be protected against mosquitoes using bed
nets or cot nets. If bed nets are long, they need to be tucked under the
mattress of the bed.
Use
Anti-Mosquito Body Spray
When stepping outside or sitting near an
open window or door, use a DEET-free anti-mosquito body spray on exposed parts of the body
(except the face). Naturally formulated body sprays not only protect
against mosquitoes but also leave a soothing effect on the skin. An extra
advantage of using this spray is that it is safe to apply on a baby’s gentle
skin.
