How To Scare Mosquitos Away

Mosquitoes not only interfere with outdoor leisure activities, but also spread disease, such as dengue, malaria, filariasis and encephalitis, in both animals and humans. More than 3,000 mosquito species exist worldwide, out of which about 175 species are known to exist in the United States, according to American Mosquito Control Association. You can keep mosquitoes at bay by taking simple precautionary measures.

Chemical repellents

These chemical formulations are safe for application on exposed skin. Though most chemical repellents do not kill the insects, they help you avoid mosquito bites. Repellants are sold in various forms — creams, liquids, sticks, sprays and aerosols. N-Diethyl-3-Methylbenzamide, or DEET, is one of the most common ingredients used in these formulations.

Products containing permethrin should not be used on skin, but are suitable for camping gear, bed nets, clothing and shoes. Clothing retains the permethrin even after repeated washing. Permethrin is effective in repelling and killing mosquitoes.

Essential oils

Burning citronella oil spreads vapors that repel mosquitoes. However, it is not as effective as chemical repellent and cannot be used in windy areas. You can also apply diluted lemon-eucalyptus oil sparingly on exposed skin. Avoid applying essential oils on small children, because they can cause skin irritation.

Mosquito traps

Light traps, bug zappers or insect electrocutors attract mosquitoes and trap or kill them by using suction or electrocution. However, based on the wind direction, the efficiency of the traps and where the traps are placed, at times they may attract more mosquitoes than the traps can catch. It is advisable to use a mosquito repellent along with a mosquito trap.

Spray guns

Household aerosol spray guns are effective in killing mosquitoes indoors. Aerosol sprays work just for a short length of time and may not be suitable for outdoor locations, because the insecticides quickly disperse in air and are not effective enough to kill mosquitoes. Keep windows and doors closed for about 10 minutes after using a spray gun.

Remove stagnant water

Mosquitoes need stagnant water to complete their life cycle. Mosquito larvae grow and develop in stagnant water. Hence, removing standing water can get rid of the larvae’s habitat. Do not allow water to stand in flower pots, tins, old tires or buckets. Clean out rain gutters to ensure water flow. If you have a birdbath in your garden, change the water at least once a week. Introduce minnows in ponds to eat any mosquito larvae that is present. All these measures will help to reduce the number of mosquitoes in your garden and home significantly.

Precautions

Never inhale repellents or bring them in close contact with your mouth or eyes while spraying them. Avoid applying high concentration repellents on your skin, and never apply these chemicals on open wounds. Contact your doctor if you see any adverse skin reaction after applying repellents. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should use repellents only sparingly after consulting their doctors.

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