All articles tagged with #insect repellent
The article discusses the impact of mosquitoes on human history and provides five practical tips to reduce mosquito bites during summer, including wearing light-colored clothing, avoiding alcohol, using thorough insect repellent, eliminating standing water, and avoiding scented products to make oneself less attractive to these insects.
Experts recommend multiple strategies to combat mosquitoes, including using EPA-approved insect repellent with DEET, wearing protective clothing, eliminating standing water, choosing plants wisely, and avoiding certain foods and scents. Scheduling outdoor activities to avoid peak mosquito times and using natural predators like fish can also help reduce mosquito populations.
Lone star ticks, found in Florida and Georgia, can cause meat allergies and spread diseases like ehrlichiosis and Heartland virus. With climate change and growing deer populations, these ticks are spreading to northern states and Canada. Effective insect repellents and permethrin-treated clothing are recommended for protection.
West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitos for the fourth time in the City of Sharon, Pennsylvania. Officials urge residents to take precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. No human cases have been reported in Mercer County, but symptoms may include fever, body aches, and a skin rash.
Windex, a common household cleaner, can be used to kill bees and wasps. One spray of Windex is usually enough to kill a bee, while wasps may require multiple sprays. However, it is important to consider the role of bees as pollinators before using Windex to kill them in your garden. Clean up any excess Windex to avoid potential harm, and note that this is not a solution for infestations, which may require professional pest control.
Pest experts recommend wearing light-colored attire or accessories, such as white or pastel colors, to reduce visibility and sweat, which attract mosquitoes. Electronic wristbands that release scents like citronella or essential oils can create a localized barrier to repel mosquitoes. Hats with netting protect the face and neck while allowing airflow, and clothing treated with repellent chemicals like permethrin provides extended protection. Shoe covers or repellent socks can also protect feet and ankles from mosquito bites.
As diseases caused by bug bites continue to rise, experts are advising people to be extra vigilant in preventing mosquito and tick bites. With concerns about red-meat allergy and illnesses associated with tick bites, and reports of mosquitoes carrying malaria and West Nile virus in the United States, choosing the right insect repellent can be challenging. The Washington Post spoke with experts who provided tips on how to prevent bug bites.
The Louisville Metro Health Department has found West Nile Virus in more zip codes, prompting fogging and mosquito prevention measures. Experts suggest wearing insect repellent and protective clothing to avoid mosquito bites. However, some individuals may be more attractive to mosquitoes due to their natural scent, breath, and the scents of soaps, lotions, and perfumes they use. Drinking alcohol, eating bananas, and certain medications can also make a person more appealing to mosquitoes. The health department advises using insect repellent consistently to protect against mosquito bites.
West Nile and St. Louis Encephalitis viruses have been found in several Valley communities in Central California, including Fresno, Clovis, Sanger, Selma, and Orange Cove. Mosquitoes carrying these viruses have been detected, and residents are advised to use EPA-registered insect repellent and prevent mosquito breeding around their homes. West Nile has been detected in every county in Central California except Mariposa County, with Tulare County reporting the only confirmed human case in the state so far this year.
Mosquitoes are not only annoying but also pose a significant threat to human health as they can transmit various diseases such as Zika, West Nile virus, dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, and malaria. With warming temperatures associated with climate change, mosquitoes are becoming more prevalent and dangerous. To prevent mosquito bites, experts recommend knowing when mosquitoes are most active in your area, wearing insect repellent strategically, protecting your home by eliminating stagnant water, and using screens or netting. Wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants and treating clothing with permethrin can also provide additional protection. Mosquito-bite prevention is crucial as there are limited medicines available to protect against these illnesses.
While not all gnats have the ability to bite, some species of gnats, such as sand flies or black flies, can bite and leave itchy bug bites. Biting gnats are usually small, have two wings, and six legs. To prevent bug bites, it is recommended to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and avoid areas where these insects are commonly found, such as ponds, streams, and swamps. Most gnats, however, are not capable of biting humans.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an alert about locally acquired cases of malaria in Florida and Texas, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are responsible for spreading diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and West Nile virus, causing around 700,000 deaths worldwide each year. Conor McMeniman, from Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, explains that mosquitoes are attracted to humans due to the way we smell, and recommends using window screens, air conditioning, fans, and EPA-registered insect repellents containing active ingredients like DEET to protect against mosquito bites. Reapplying the repellent as instructed is crucial for effectiveness.
The winterkill of big game herds in Wyoming may lead to an increase in ticks attaching to humans and domestic animals, as ticks seek alternative hosts due to the lack of wild animals. The Rocky Mountain wood tick is the most common species in the region and can carry diseases such as Colorado tick fever and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. In rare cases, tick paralysis can occur, which can be fatal if the tick is not removed. The weather this year could also produce a bumper crop of ticks in some places. Experts recommend using insect repellent and tick repellant on clothing and gear, and ensuring pets are up to date on their tick and flea medications.
Citronella candles are not as effective in repelling mosquitoes as previously thought, as essential oils evaporate too quickly. However, they still provide some protection as mosquitoes are not fond of the scent or heat that comes with smoke. To effectively repel mosquitoes, experts suggest covering up with suitable clothing, using insect repellent, keeping the garden tidy, and using fans to disperse carbon dioxide.
Consumer Reports tested 53 insect repellents to find the most effective ones against mosquitoes and ticks. Repellents containing 25% to 30% deet were found to be the most effective, with 3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent8 and Ben's Tick and Insect Repellent Wilderness Formula Pump being the top recommendations. Proper application is also important. Repellents containing 20% picaridin or 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus were also effective.