With the arrival of summer, mosquito season has commenced in most parts of the United States. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that there are over 200 mosquito species in the country and around 12 of them can transmit diseases to humans.
Tips To Protect Oneself From Mosquito Bites
Mosquitoes are experiencing extended lifespans, increased biting activity, and spreading to new locations previously unoccupied. Luckily, keeping these insects at bay is relatively straightforward. An article in SELF's Health section gives a few tips to protect oneself from these deadly insects:
1. Stay vigilant about local mosquito peak activity and plan accordingly.
Mosquitoes are widespread, with different species thriving in various environments. When traveling to regions where disease-carrying mosquitoes are prevalent, such as Florida, heightened prevention measures are advised. Timing is crucial as well, with some species more active during specific periods.
Culex mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn, while Aedes mosquitoes, common in the southeast and West Coast, bite throughout the day. Dr. Daniel Pastula recommends checking local health department websites or using the CDC tool to identify the active species in your area and take appropriate precautions during peak activity.
2. Optimize the application of insect repellant
Using insect repellant is crucial for preventing mosquito bites and potential infections. Various types are available, such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus. Stick to EPA-registered products, avoid "natural" repellents, and opt for 10 to 35% DEET or picaridin concentrations. Apply the repellent over sunscreen for optimal protection.
3. Secure the house
To keep bugs out of your home, use screens or netting on open windows, close doors, and run the AC. Prevent mosquito breeding by removing stagnant water from outdoor containers and covering rainwater collections or pools to stop egg-laying. Look for wriggling larvae as an indication of mosquito presence and promptly empty the water.
4. Wear protective clothing
When entering insect-infested areas like forests or marshes, wear long-sleeve shirts and pants as a natural barrier against bugs. While it does not guarantee complete protection, covering up reduces the likelihood of mosquito bites, according to Dr. Pastula.
In areas with disease outbreaks, consider treating clothing and shoes with permethrin, a potent insecticide effective against various bugs for up to six months, including mosquitoes and ticks.
READ ALSO : Chemical Compounds From Human Odors Stimulate Mosquito-Borne Diseases Like Dengue Fever [STUDY]
Are Mosquitoes Attracted to a Certain Blood Type?
In a news release, Hartford HealthCare along with Pfizer, and entomologist Floyd Shockley noted that mosquitoes are more attracted to people with type O blood compared to other blood types. The preference for type O blood was observed in studies focusing on different mosquito species, such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.
Two studies, published in 2004 and 2019, revealed that individuals with type O blood were more frequently targeted by blood-feeding mosquitoes, making them more favorable hosts. However, other factors such as sweating, alcohol consumption, and higher body temperatures can also attract mosquitoes.
RELATED ARTICLE: Mosquitoes Drawn to Certain Kinds of Soaps People Use, Revealing That Some Could Either Attract or Repel Them
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