
Snuggly Shield Emerges in Malaria Fight
A study in Uganda found that treating baby wraps with mosquito repellent significantly reduced malaria infections in young children, offering a promising new method for disease prevention.
All articles tagged with #mosquito repellent

A study in Uganda found that treating baby wraps with mosquito repellent significantly reduced malaria infections in young children, offering a promising new method for disease prevention.

A household product, specifically catnip essential oil, can effectively repel mosquitoes and prevent bites, offering a natural alternative to chemical repellents during summer, and may help reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Pest control expert Pat Joiner from Pest Gnome shares a natural homemade mosquito repellent recipe using lavender essential oil, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. These ingredients mask human scents that attract mosquitoes, making it easier to keep them away during the summer. The mixture is safe for most pets but should be used cautiously around children and animals.

Argentina is facing its worst outbreak of dengue fever, leading to a shortage of mosquito repellent and exorbitant prices online, with over 180,500 infections and 129 deaths. The government has lifted import restrictions and announced increased local production to address the shortage. The outbreak is attributed to factors including climate change and El Niño, and citizens are resorting to DIY methods to protect themselves from mosquitoes.

Dermatologist Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky explains why mosquitoes are attracted to some people more than others in a viral TikTok video. Mosquitoes are drawn to sweat, higher body temperature, and compounds like ammonia, uric acid, and lactic acid. Factors such as drinking beer, blood type (O being more attractive), carbon dioxide exhalation, and the color of clothing can also make individuals more appealing to mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are attracted to areas with robust bacterial colonies, such as ankles. Making lifestyle changes like wearing lighter-colored clothing, using mosquito repellent, and practicing better personal hygiene can help reduce mosquito bites.

Cinnamon can be an effective mosquito repellent and larvae killer when added to a birdbath due to its eugenol content. However, while the smell of cinnamon may repel birds, taste is unlikely to be a factor as birds have few taste buds. It is important to use Ceylon (true) cinnamon, as cassia (Chinese) cinnamon contains coumarin, which is toxic to birds. Adding a fountain to the birdbath may be a better option as the constant movement of water deters mosquitoes.
Mosquitos are most active in the early morning and early evening hours, preferring cooler temperatures and seeking moisture and shade. They are less active during the middle of the day when it is hotter and daylight can be deadly for them. To protect yourself from mosquito bites, use bug spray, citronella oil or candles, and avoid areas with standing water. Additionally, avoid spending time outdoors in the early mornings or evenings if you want to minimize mosquito encounters.

Gardening expert Melissa Vines shared a tip on Instagram for using Lemon balm as a super effective mosquito repellent. Rubbing the leaves onto the skin can help keep mosquitoes away. Lemon balm has a strong lemon scent that mosquitoes detest, making it an ideal plant for repelling bugs. Other herbal repellents include rosemary, basil, and citronella.

A gardener on Instagram shared a simple hack to repel mosquitoes using lemon balm leaves. By rubbing the leaves on the skin, the lemon balm acts as a natural mosquito repellent. This method is not only effective but also free of artificial chemicals. Using mosquito-repellent plants like lemon balm reduces the need for chemical alternatives, benefiting both humans and wildlife. Commenters were excited to try this hack and suggested other ways to incorporate lemon balm into bug sprays.

Mosquito dunks are small tablets that dissolve in water and contain Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), a natural bacteria that targets mosquito larvae. Placing one tablet in standing water where mosquitoes breed can protect against mosquitoes for up to 30 days while treating up to 100 square feet of surface water, providing a mosquito-free environment for outdoor activities.
The VesperGuard from VIBIS is a portable, palm-sized diffuser that creates a 30ft protective bubble around you, repelling mosquitoes without the need for sprays or creams. With a sleek design and IP65 water resistance, the VesperGuard is perfect for indoor or outdoor use. It works continuously for up to 16 hours on a full charge and charges via USB-C. Each device comes with 30 repellent mats, providing 12 hours of protection each. Available for $64, the VesperGuard offers a convenient and effective solution for a mosquito-free experience.

Palm Beach County's Division of Mosquito Control will conduct aerial spraying to combat increased mosquito levels and potential vector borne disease threats. The spraying will cover approximately 165,000 acres, including populated areas west of Military Trail, such as Jupiter, Acreage/Loxahatchee/Royal Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Wellington, and the Glades communities. Residents are advised to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and minimize standing water on their properties.

Garden and pest control experts have shared their favorite recipes for homemade mosquito repellents, which use all-natural ingredients. These include lemon and eucalyptus oil, catnip oil, neem oil and coconut oil, and citronella. While homemade sprays may not be as effective as commercial options, they are a cost-effective and natural alternative. It is important to note that the effectiveness of these remedies may vary depending on factors such as mosquito species, environmental conditions, and personal skin chemistry.

Lavender is a natural mosquito repellent that can be used on your porch to keep the pesky insects away. Its strong odor overwhelms their sense of smell and causes them to stay away. You can grow lavender around your home or use a few drops of essential oil to get the same effect. Lavender also repels flies, ants, and rodents. However, keep it away from dogs and cats as it's toxic to them.