Mosquitoes are tenacious and resilient parasites that cause dangerous diseases and ruin your outdoor experience. Mosquitoes are responsible for disease epidemics across the globe. They have been the reason behind the recent dengue outbreaks in several nations worldwide. Moreover, mosquitoes were the culprits behind the chikungunya and the Zika epidemics. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention or CDC, West Nile Virus is supposed to be one of the top reasons behind mosquito-borne disease spreading in the continental U.S. A. An infected mosquito can transmit the disease to humans by biting them. Here are some expert tips to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Do Not Allow Any Standing Water in the Vicinity of Your Home
Mosquitoes take only a fortnight to breed in standing water. It could be in a bird bath, rain gutter, or water in flower vases or pots. If there is a pond near your house, opt for a fountain or waterfall to ensure the water will keep moving. Alternatively, consider treating the pond water with Bacillus thuringiensis, natural bacteria. It is used for killing mosquito larvae, but it is not hazardous to pets, plants, and people. It is best to do away with standing water to minimize mosquito infestation. You may check Mosquito Authority for mosquito barriers to get rid of mosquitoes and safeguard your loved ones against mosquito bites.
Grow Plants That Mosquitoes Find Repulsive
This is a good mosquito-combating stratagem, provided you use it in conjugation with other strategies. Grow plants that naturally repel mosquitoes and prevent them from coming close to your house. Lemongrass, lavender, citronella, basil, and marigolds can keep mosquitoes away from your property and reduce their incidence.
Take Proactive Measures to Prevent Mosquitoes from Coming Inside
Consider using screens on air conditioning or windows to prevent mosquitoes from coming inside your home. You may use a mosquito net over a crib or bed to avoid mosquito bites while sleeping. You may use camping-special mosquito nets strategically treated with effective time-release insecticides.
Remain Indoors at Dawn or Dusk
We understand that mosquitoes will not spare you whenever they come across you, irrespective of the time, but it is best to restrict your exposure to them, particularly their main feeding times.
Do Not Forget to Rely on Structural Barriers
Rely on structural barriers to keep mosquitoes away from your home interiors. You can stop mosquitoes from entering your home by covering all gaps and holes present in doors, windows, and walls. Ensure that all door and window screens are in perfect working condition. Baby beds, cribs, and carriers should be covered completely with fine mosquito netting to protect your baby from mosquito bites.
Use Effective Mosquito Repellents
Use effective chemical repellants containing PMD, DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 insecticide. These repellents should be used as directed to avoid any issues. However, they are safe for use in the case of nursing and pregnant women. You may consider using mosquito repellents to protect babies more than two months old. It is, however, better to use lower DEET concentrations for kids. Do not spray these chemicals near the mouth and the eyes. Avoid using mosquito repellents if any skin irritation or allergies occur.
Conclusion
It is crucial to safeguard your family from mosquito bites. You must take effective measures to control mosquitoes in and around your house.
