Avoiding Mosquito Bites During Summer

One of the only real downsides about the summer months are the itchy mosquito bites that seem to come along with the warmer weather and still air. Particularly concerning lately is the Zika virus epidemic. The Zika virus is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. The virus can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus, and infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. There is currently no vaccine or medicine for Zika, so it has been a frightening epidemic and it is more important than ever to avoid mosquito bites this summer.

To make sure that you’re protected this summer, here are a few ways to actively avoid mosquito bites…

It probably goes without saying, but if you want to avoid mosquito’s bites and other insects, wear insect repellent. It’s one of the most effective ways to avoid bites, and it’s such a simple solution. You can pick up insect repellent at your local pharmacy and have some peace of mind that you’re being proactive about your health.

Little known fact: mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors. Mosquitoes use their vision to search for food sources during the daylight hours. And since they fly very close to the ground, they tend to find targets by looking for things that contrast with the horizon. Dark colors stand out, but light colors are less attractive to them. Thus, wearing lightly colored clothing is a good way to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Generally, mosquitoes are more active at dusk and dawn, although this may differ depending on the species.These times of the day are often cooler and less windy, making conditions more favorable for mosquitoes. Every boater knows big water tends to die down at dawn and dusk. That’s because the wind typically dissipates as the sun rises and sets. The lack of wind at those times also brings mosquitoes out to feed. If you can schedule your outdoor outings at other times of the day, you’ll sidestep a lot of bugs.

We’ve all been guilty of leaving the buckets and spades from our beach trip out on the porch or balcony. However, did you know that these can attract mosquitoes? Standing water provides mosquitoes with the perfect breeding environment! You can avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes by making your accommodation less appealing to mosquitoes. This can simply be done by remembering to empty water out of glasses, mugs, cups, buckets and spades if being left outside.

As hard as you try and although you take every precaution to avoid mosquito bites, they may very well still happen. Just try not to scratch! Going after that mosquito bite will only make it worse, since all the scratching just adds to the inflammation. Stay safe this summer, and remember the bug spray!