Looming menace of mosquitoes: strategies to secure self from their assault
A balmy winter, damp spring showers, and now a heatwave - that's the scene, and yet again, mosquitoes are back with a vengeance. With the right precautions, one can ward off these pesky critters.
A chilly winter followed by weeks of spring rain could mean a swarming insect invasion in 2024. The pesky mosquitoes will surely become a persistent annoyance. High temperatures paired with excessive rain trigger several mosquito generations to emerge within a short time frame, translating to countless numbers swarming the skies.
These winged tormentors can ruin an otherwise peaceful summer evening, not just with their incessant buzzing and biting, but even a simple evening can be spoiled by their very presence. Their itchy bites add insult to injury. How can one keep mosquitoes at bay effectively?
What lures mosquitoes?
Puddles in gardens or fields are irresistible to mosquitoes, but this isn't the only allure. Even other water containers like birdbaths or watering cans are a hit. By keeping everything dry, one can somewhat manage the mosquito population in their own backyard.
The widespread belief that mosquitoes are attracted to light is false. Day-active, night-active, and crepuscular mosquitoes exist. So, when mosquitoes fly into homes as lights turn on at dusk, it's because most mosquitoes are crepuscular.
The sensation that a mosquito is near your ear during nighttime in your bedroom comes from the fact that mosquitoes are scent-oriented insects and respond to human body odor and the carbon dioxide we release. Carbon dioxide concentration is highest around the head. Even with the light off but the window open, one may not escape mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can also detect body sweat, and the warmth of the body particularly attracts the biting insects.
What strategies can one use to deter mosquitoes?
When a mosquito invades your bedroom during sleep or a swarm buzzes during sunset, there are ways to cope. A shower not only removes sweat smell but also lowers body temperature. However, this reprieve is short-lived during the summer. Avoiding heavily-scented shower gels or creams can also help keep mosquitoes at bay.
A fan in indoor spaces can stir up the air, which the mosquito might not prefer. Aromatic oils such as eucalyptus, citrus, cedarwood, lavender, mint, and tomato plants can keep mosquitoes away. Anti-mosquito scent candles, mosquito spray, or clothing with a repellent treatment may also help, but they often have a chemical scent. Wearing light, loose, and preferably light-colored clothing can deter mosquitoes.
Mosquito bite? Home solutions for relief
If a mosquito manages a bite, prompt action is needed to avoid days of itching. The affected area should be cooled with cold water or a cold compress, and an antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream should be applied. If these are unavailable, spitting on the sting can help reduce inflammation.
For itch relief, a heated ladle or a half onion can do the trick. The onion helps neutralize the itch-causing substances and soothes the skin.
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To effectively manage the mosquito population, consulting with an expert Advisor on insect control methods could be beneficial. Despite the common misconception, not all insects, including mosquitoes, are attracted to light. Therefore, conducting Tests on various repellent methods, such as using aromatic oils or planting certain plants, could provide effective solutions to deter these pests.
