Do mosquitoes seem to follow you wherever you go? With a few tips, you can identify mosquito bites, and learn how to fend off mosquitoes outdoors and inside your home.
Mosquitoes can cause more harm than an annoying bite
Mosquitoes cause an annoying bite but can potentially make you sick. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) points out that in the U.S., West Nile Virus “is the most common virus spread through mosquito bites.” Mosquitoes carrying West Nile typically bite from dusk to dawn, when you are enjoying your evening on the deck with friends, the family BBQ or your fishing or camping trip. In some cases, West Nile has proved fatal.
Chikungunya virus, warns the CDC, causes multiple symptoms including sudden high fever, severe and debilitating joint swelling and pain.
Mosquito bites are itchy, round and pinkish-red in color. You likely have one or two mosquito bites, unlike bed bug bites for instance, which results in several tiny, itchy bites in a line or clustered close together. While most mosquito bites do not result in complications, if you develop symptoms indicative of mosquito-born illness, seek medical attention.
How do I prevent mosquito bites?
You may not prevent every mosquito bite, but taking appropriate precautions will help. The Mayo Clinic suggests:
• Wear long sleeves and full-length pants outdoors. Tucking pants into your socks provides extra protection.
• Wear light colors and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Use an insect repellant, following manufacturer instructions.
• Use an insecticide/repellant made for use on clothing and outdoor equipment.
Reducing mosquitoes at home
Reducing mosquitoes around your home is not as difficult as you may think. Simple actions help protect you and your family from their annoying bites.
• Get rid of old tires
• Do not allow water to stand outside your home. Empty bird baths, swimming and wading pools regularly.
• A simple fan can help protect you indoors. Mosquitoes do not fly well in wind. The breeze from a fan inside your home can help keep them away. Choose an oscillating fan to provide protection in all directions.
If you have a mosquito problem, Preventive Pest Control can provide effective solutions for ridding your home of mosquitoes or other pests.