Preventive Actions

Different preventive measures can be taken to avoid mosquito bites. At night while sleeping you can opt for mosquito nets to keep mosquitoes away. You can also use nets to cover your baby’s pram or stroller while going for a walk. One must be careful not to open the net too wide so as to allow mosquitoes to enter. Also check for holes and tears in the net and if any mend them without delay as they can allow mosquitoes to enter inside the net. Though nets are very safe it is not practically possible to always stay within the net to avoid mosquitoes.

Therefore one has to opt for other preventive measures especially outdoors as mosquitoes are attracted to foliage. If you want to spend time gardening or mowing your lawn or your children want to play in the park, then you and your kids are bound to be bitten profusely if you have not taken any precaution. A mosquito repellant cream or lotion is a good option at such times. Such creams are safe on children and even infants above two months of age. Mosquitoes are attracted to the smell of human breath and perspiration due to the presence of carbon dioxide and lactic acid. You have to apply the cream on the exposed areas of the body as its smell will shield the human body odors and prevent mosquitoes from coming close.

Another option to avoid mosquito bites is to use mosquito sprays on the clothes that you wear for your outdoor activity. You can also use some mosquito repellant spray in the bedroom for about 10 – 15 minutes before sleeping to drive mosquitoes away.

Most of the repellant creams and sprays contain DEET which is a safe chemical for application on human skin. However, even though it is safe, many of us may still cringe at the idea of using chemicals on our skin or breathing in chemicals through sprays.

Nowadays, there are many mosquito creams and sprays available which are made of plant oils like lemongrass oil, citronella oil, castor oil, eucalyptus oil and the like. These oils have a strong smell which naturally repels mosquitoes and other insects. Using such natural creams and sprays is a safer option as there are no side effects like skin allergies and rashes associated with their use. However, whenever you use any mosquito repellant cream on children you should apply it sparingly for the first time to see if there is any allergic reaction. If there is none, you can continue to use it.

Incase you have had mosquito bites you should not scratch them in spite of the itchy sensation as that might lead to scars and marks on the skin. Instead wash the area with soap and water immediately to reduce the itchiness and inflammation.

The first step is to minimize mosquitoes in your area. This means getting rid of standing water especially. If your pet has an outdoor water dish –and it should if it’s outdoors regularly – you need to empty and clean that dish on a regular basis, at least every two or three days. An untended dish can harbor mosquito eggs and larvae – even the standing water around your pet’s water dish can harbor mosquito eggs and larvae.

In addition, try to keep your pet inside during the hours around dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. This will help to prevent bites from happening in the first place.

If your pet stays outdoors all day, consider using a mosquito trap. You can choose a mosquito trap that uses carbon dioxide to attract and trap pests or one of the nets than can be attached to a box fan. Whichever type of outdoor treatment you choose, make sure that you don’t expose your pet to dangerous chemicals. There are a number of natural plants that help repel mosquitoes – consider planting these near the areas where your pet plays and sleeps outdoors.

There are also mosquito repellent products made specifically for your pets. Don’t use products designed for humans on pets, particularly if the product contains DEET. And if you do choose to use a chemical product, always read and follow label directions exactly. For example, products that are safe for dogs may not be safe for cats, while products that are safe for mature dogs may not be safe for puppies. If you can’t find a product that’s specifically designed to repel mosquitoes, a flea and tick repellent may also provide some protection. If you have trouble finding a repellent spray or product that’s safe for your pet, talk to your veterinarian for recommendations.

Some newer repellent products contain plant extracts and essential oils, instead of chemicals like DEET. However, it isn’t known yet if these products are safe or effective for pets. Citrus oils, for example, can make some pets ill, so use caution if you want to try one of these products on your pet.

If you want to avoid the use of chemical repellents, some changes in your pet’s diet may also help keep mosquitoes away. For example, feeding your pet garlic can change his odor and make him less attractive to mosquitoes. Dietary changes alone, however, may not provide complete protection and you should always make sure your pet is fed a healthy diet. Don’t let your enthusiasm for natural remedies mean that your pet doesn’t get all the vitamins and nutrients he needs.

Mosquito foggers are devices which spread mosquito repellents or insecticides in the form of fog. It is one of the most popular methods for getting rid of mosquitoes and other insects, such as flies, biting flies, gnats and fleas. The chemical that is used in these devices are either turned into a smoke or spread as small droplets of the liquid.

Mosquito foggers can be broadly divided into two types : the thermal and the cold foggers. There are different chemicals that can be used in these two types of foggers i.e. the chemicals for cold foggers and thermal foggers are different. Moreover, depending upon the area to be covered, the chemicals need to be changed. Usually, the chemicals that are used in foggers for outdoor use are stronger than those of indoor usage.

The cold foggers are usually powered by electricity, meaning that, it has an obvious disadvantage of having an electrical connection available for using it. In most cases, an extension cord and an external plug would be required for operating these machines. However, it does not produce fog or smoke, which can be annoying in some cases, like the thermal fogger. Electrical cold foggers can be used effectively in the indoors and outdoors. The biggest advantage of using electrical cold foggers is that their droplet sizes can be controlled. Usually some areas, such as house, warehouse and restaurants require smaller droplets for better coverage and effective results. A common example of cold fogger is the B&G 2300 My-Ti-Lite fogger. It uses standard droplets, and produces a cleaner mist that is acceptable in many indoor areas.

On the other hand, a thermal fogger uses a thermal coil that produces a light mist or smoke of the insecticides. The natural outcome of such an instrument is that the insecticides can be used in areas which can’t be reached easily. The thermal fogger finds its use in mosquito protection in areas such as yards, patios and gazebos. The smoke produced by thermal foggers can be directed at grass, small trees, shrubs, cook-out areas and under picnic tables.

Thermal foggers are mainly of two types: The Burgess Electric Fogger is useful for smaller areas close to an electrical connection while the Burgess Propane Fogger does not require an electrical connection and is completely portable. Usually, these foggers come with the insecticides that are best suited for them. As mentioned earlier, the chemicals for different foggers are different and it is wise to learn which insecticides are best suitable for your fogger.

The best insecticide for thermal foggers is Resmethrin Fogging Solution (Burgess Bug Killer Insect Fog) which contains 0.2% Resmethrin and is labeled for use with thermal foggers. Another option, the Ready to Use .5% Fog, a material that contains 0.5% pyrethrins, is also commonly used with thermal foggers.

For cold foggers, the best chemicals that can be used, include Resmethrin Fogging Solution and Ready to Use .5% Fog, especially for outdoor usage. Another option is the Exciter, which contains a very high concentration of pyrethrins and is best suited for larger needs.

The use of mosquito foggers, not only saves us from various mosquito diseases, it also provides an easy way to get rid of annoying mosquitoes, flies and other insects.

The mosquito dunks remain useful for a period of 30 days. That means that it will be able to kill the larvae upto 30 days from when it is released in water. Moreover, alternate wetting and drying does not diminish their properties. Therefore, dunks can be used in places where drying and wetting takes place, such as places where periodic flooding occurs.

The mosquito dunks can cover a reasonably large area. Usually one dunk is recommended for 25-100 square feet of water surface area, regardless of its depth. For efficient use in small areas, ¼ part of a dunk can be used for 1-5 square feet of water surface area. These dunks are completely harmless for other species, such as birds, fishes, plants and pets. Due to this advantage, the dunks can be used practically everywhere where water is retained, even in the tree crotch, which can become a breeding ground for the mosquitoes otherwise.

The dunks usually have a hole in the center, which is used to keep it in place with the help of a string or a stake. This helps in using dunks where water can wash away the dunks. Therefore, the dunks can also be used on running water. Usually the dunks float on water and slowly release the Bti which kills the larvae. By placing them in a preferred location, where mosquito larvae population is comparatively more than other areas, the dunks can be effectively used to kill them.

As mentioned earlier, the dunks can be practically used anywhere where water is clogged. The potential breeding grounds of mosquitoes may include flower pots, bird baths, tree holes and old tires. Other places where the dunks can be used include rain barrels, roof gutters and other such areas that have standing water. After placing the dunks, one need not inspect it regularly for its effectiveness, as it automatically performs its duty.

However, caution must be taken while using the dunks, so that it does not mix with foodstuff. If taken orally, it can be harmful for people. The dunks should also be kept away from children and should be stored in a place inaccessible to children.

The mosquito dunks are a slow and steady, but sure way, to get rid of mosquitoes. It kills the mosquitoes before they become old enough to bite. Being solid and easy to use, these can be handled by anybody without having any special knowledge of the product and its usage. These are also effective enough for a long period and hence can be used for a longer lasting effect.

Mosquito protection is necessary to stay away from dangerous diseases such as malaria, dog heartworm, dengue, yellow fever and west Nile virus disease. While it is important to stay away from mosquito bites, many people tend to eradicate mosquito from their own personal spaces. Both the ways can be adopted for mosquito protection, but staying away from mosquito bites is probably the more appropriate way for personal mosquito protection. There are various ways to deal with the mosquitoes, such as using repellents, wearing mosquito hats and nets and using chemicals to keep the mosquitoes away.

Mosquito repellents: Most of the mosquito repellents work by stopping the cues that make mosquitoes aware of your presence. The most popular among all is the DEET or N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide. It has been found in researches that the repellent containing 24% DEET is the most effective among many repellents. It may remain effective for as long as five hours from application and that is quite impressive compared to other such products. DEET is quite safe to use and it does not fall under carcinogens.

Apart from the lotions and gels that find bodily use, there are various other sources that repel mosquitoes from people. Citronella candles have been used for long to repel mosquitoes but research has found that they might not be effective enough. Among the various products that steer mosquitoes away from people, Mosquito Deleto and Mosquito Magnet are quite popular. These are portable mosquito traps that emit carbon dioxide and octenol. Mosquitoes get attracted by these traps and they head towards these traps rather than following human beings.

Mosquito nets: Various countries that are worse affected by mosquitoes find mosquito nets very useful and effective. The net is usually used to stop mosquito and other insects from reaching the body but it does not impede the flow of air.

Mosquito nets are used in malaria prone areas as a tent-like covering over the bed. This protects the person using the net from the mosquitoes and maintains the flow of air as well.

Some times, mosquito nets are also treated with insecticides. These insecticide treated nets were first made in 1980 for providing relief from mosquitoes, and consequently, from malaria. The nets are usually impregnated with a pyrethroid insecticide like deltamethrin or permethrin. However, the impregnation must be renewed regularly which makes these nets unpopular. To overcome this situation, long lasting mosquito nets were developed which withstood up to 20 washings. These nets also use pyrethroid insecticides and are a better alternative than the general mosquito nets.

The Cons

Although mosquito repellents and nets are quite popular ways to stay away from mosquitoes, they also have some disadvantages. The repellents are found to be harmful for children. Moreover, their oral use is one of the most influential subjects, as far as the researchers are concerned. The labels should be carefully read and instructions followed, while using these repellents.

The mosquito nets are only useful to the extent that the person who uses it is at a safe distance from the net as mosquitoes can bite through the nets. Moreover, there should be no gaps or holes in the nets so that mosquitoes cannot pass through them and bite a person inside the nets. Moreover, the nets which use mosquito repellents should be regularly and properly treated to keep them intact and effective for mosquito protection.

Natural mosquito control has gained much attention due to the obnoxious side effects of the chemical bug sprays. There are unwanted side effects of chemicals used for mosquito control. Therefore, some people opt for the natural means to control the spread and breeding of the silent killers. In a broader sense, the term natural mosquito control encompasses all the methods used without the chemicals that are used in bug sprays or as insecticides.

The most popular method used by many people to control mosquitoes includes the use of citronella. It can either be used in candles, known as citronella candles, or as a topical ointment. Usually, citronella is mixed with some other ingredients, such as castor bean or catnip oils, when it is used as a topical ointment of the skin. The ointment is believed to stop the signaling cues that attract the mosquitoes and thereby helps protect the person from mosquito bites. Various mosquito repellents that use natural ingredients are available in the market but the most popular among them is Avon’s “Skin-So-Soft”. This lotion has been extensively used by people right from its release.

Some machines have also been used to control mosquitoes which do not use any chemicals or insecticides. Mosquito magnet is such an instrument. It generally produces the same cues, including the release of carbon dioxide, which attracts the mosquitoes to the death trap. Many mosquitoes are attracted by the machine, thinking that there is presence of living beings, as the cues offered by the machine is similar, to those obtained from the living beings. Although these machines cannot be termed to be completely natural, they can be included in natural mosquito controllers as they do not use any chemicals.

Another measure for controlling mosquitoes naturally, calls for wearing clothes that do not attract mosquitoes. It has been observed that mosquitoes are attracted towards darker colors. Therefore, wearing light colored clothes can be the key to keep mosquitoes away. Beige, khaki and white clothes are recommended for keeping the mosquitoes at a safe distance.

A simple, yet sure way, of controlling mosquitoes is not to allow water to be stored in any container. Any form of standing water provides a fantastic breeding ground for mosquitoes. Therefore draining the standing water is an utmost factor for not allowing the breeding and spread of mosquitoes. The most common places where water can stand include water buckets, rain barrels, bottles and cans, empty plastic pots, old car tires and boat tarps or pool covers. Moreover, uneven areas in lawns or gardens, clogged rain gutters and drains, birdbaths and water bowls for pets can also act as home to standing water and subsequently the source of production of new mosquitoes.

Some people also resort to methods of killing the larvae so that no new mosquitoes are born. One of these methods uses fishes that eat the larvae. Minnows and goldfish are quite common examples of fishes that eat larvae, but the most effective is the Gambusia affinis, an expert in eating larvae. The fish is so efficient that it is nicknamed “mosquito fish” for its expertise.

By applying any of these methods, one can start a completely natural mosquito control process. It just needs a will to conquer the tiny, whining insects.

Many people, over one million, die from mosquito diseases every year. Mosquito is a carrier and transmitter of various diseases. Mosquito borne diseases include protozoan (Malaria), filarial (dog heartworm) and viral diseases (dengue, encephalitis). It would be worthwhile to discuss the diseases individually for clarity and profound understanding.

Malaria

Malaria is a disease that occurs due to the attack of plasmodium parasites. It is carried by female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is believed that nearly 40% of the world population is susceptible to malaria. According to a survey, nearly three million deaths and 300-500 million cases of malaria are still reported every year, despite many attempts to eradicate malaria. Recently, scientists have claimed that they have cracked the code of malaria parasite, the plasmodium vivax genome.

Dengue

Dengue is an arboviral disease common in the Americas, Asia and Africa. Although it has a low mortality, its symptoms are quite uncomfortable and recently the disease has turned very serious. The major vectors of the disease include Aedes aegypti and Aedes Albopictus. With passing time, dengue has become more common and many countries, including America, India, Sri Lanka and Venezuela has reported an increased number of dengue cases.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

EEE is a common disease that affects the central nervous system and is carried by mosquitoes. A serious arboviral disease, EEE is prevalent in North America, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Mosquitoes including several Culex species and Culiseta melanura are responsible for carrying the disease that is acquired from birds. The major symptoms may include a headache, mild flu with fever, and sore throat. Sudden fever and severe headache, followed quickly by seizures and coma, are symptoms of the nervous system getting affected. Nearly half of the patients suffering from the disease die; while many live with serious implications.

West Nile Virus (WNV)

WNV is a flavivirus. The virus is acquired from birds and is transmitted to mammals, including horses and humans, by infected mosquitoes. West Nile Fever is the least severe in symptoms, including headache, fever, tiredness and aches or a rash. It may also lead to “neuroinvasive disease” that affects the nervous system. Other forms of diseases include West Nile encephalitis and West Nile meningitis. The former affects the brain while the latter, a form of meningoencephalitis, results in an inflammation of the brain and its membranes.

Dog Heartworm

Dog heartworm is a serious disease and is caused by a roundworm. Mosquitoes usually carry the larvae of the worm and when they bite dogs, the worms are transmitted to the blood stream of dogs. To complete the life cycle the worms infect the mosquitoes when they blood feed from a sick dog. The young worms develop in the mosquito’s body for two to three weeks and then it comes to the mouth parts of the mosquito, through which it can affect the animals. In unfriendly hosts, such as human, the worm usually dies. The disease has been reported in almost all states of the USA.

Apart from the above mentioned common diseases, mosquitoes can cause yellow fever, Systemic lupus erythematosus and a host of other mosquito diseases that infect, and kill many people around the world every year.

Chemical Based Mosquito Creams Can Cause Skin Irritations

Mosquitoes should be avoided as they are also carriers of viruses like the West Nile Virus which can cause body ache, fever and weakness for several days.

Female mosquitoes bite humans and animals as they need the blood for their nutrition during breeding. In order to avoid mosquitoes from biting, one can take certain measures.

Mosquitoes are attracted to greenery so they are found in abundance in lawns, gardens and parks. You should wear clothes which cover your arms and legs whenever you go outdoors. Also wear protective footwear instead of sandals while working or playing outside.

It is a good idea to use a mosquito repellant cream or spray before going for any outdoor activity. Most of these creams and sprays contain a chemical called DEET which is certified to be safe for humans.

However, in spite of being proven to be safe most of us would not like to use chemicals on our skin. This is because chemicals are more prone to having side effects like skin allergies and rashes. That is why natural mosquito repellants are gaining popularity today.

Whether you opt for natural mosquito creams and sprays or chemical based ones, at the first application use it very sparingly to check for any redness or allergic reaction. Discontinue the product if there is any irritation.

Avoid Storing Water To Prevent Mosquito Breeding

Natural mosquito repellants are made of plant oils like lemongrass oil, citronella oil, eucalyptus oil, castor oil and garlic extracts. These oils have strong smells which cannot be tolerated by insects. Mosquitoes detect humans due to the carbon dioxide present in their exhaled breath and lactic acid present in the perspiration. The strong smell of the plant oils shields the human body odor and thus keeps mosquitoes away.
However, since plant oils are not as powerful as chemicals you may need to reapply the natural mosquito creams and sprays more frequently if you are planning a long outdoor activity.

Natural mosquito sprays can also be mixed with low cost vegetable oils and sprayed over stagnant water in tubs, ponds and puddles. Water containers encourage the growth of mosquito larvae. The oil film cuts off the oxygen supply to the larvae and kills them. Also the strong smell prevents mosquitoes from breeding. As a precautionary measure, one must avoid storing water in tubs or drums and change the water from time to time.

In case, you do get bitten by mosquitoes wash the area with soap and water to reduce the inflammation and itchy sensation. You can also apply an antiseptic lotion on the bite. Applying a soothing aloe vera cream can also help to reduce the pain and swelling.

As a preventive measure natural mosquito repellants are a good choice as they are both safe and effective.

There are several mosquito control products available in the market that include surface sprays, space sprays, outdoor repellents, mosquito dunks, mosquito zapper, fogging, indoor mosquito repellents, chemical free repellents, mosquito attractant, and mosquito bits.

Mosquitoes - A Nuisance

The problem of mosquitoes is a large one. We have to eliminate the breeding grounds in areas around our homes as well as get rid of them around the world. This is because even if we are able to eradicate all breeding areas around us; mosquitoes in other areas would still fly to our part of the world.

You need to make a beginning now. Do away with all possible mosquito breeding sources like piles of cut grass, stagnant water, tall grass, weeds and free gutters of garbage and vegetation. These are the first steps of an integrated pest management program.

Use Of Mosquito Control Products

Your mosquito control program would also include the use of several mosquito control products. Here is how you can use these products to eliminate mosquitoes:

• Make use of long term prevention techniques like mosquito dunks that clean fish ponds, bird baths, ditches, lakes, storm drains etc.

• Try short-term techniques like fogging to kill the mosquito larvae and the adult mosquitoes alongside.
• A mosquito zapper or a mosquito attractant can be used in the evenings for outdoor activities.
• For a more personal protection, there is nothing better than a good mosquito repellent. Get yourself a repellent containing DEET. Today doctors recommend DEET containing repellents as the best options.
• Sealing all doors, screens and windows is also a good solution to ward off mosquitoes. If you are not always able to achieve this then do use a space spray to kill these flying pests. Space sprays include hand-held pyrethrin fog and metered aerosol dispenser. Both these mosquito control products knockdown mosquitoes instantly. You can even try using an automatic dispenser containing a combination of both pyrethrins and aerosol. This dispenser would apply a small burst every 15 minutes.
• Use an electric fogger for large indoor houses (like warehouses and buildings). Here too natural pyrethrins can be used in the fogging machine.

Besides choosing any or all of the above mosquito control products, you can reduce the risk through some other ways. Stay indoors when mosquitoes strike the most. This means that you must avoid going outside during the early morning and late evening hours. Even if you do have to go, use a DEET containing repellent and wear protective clothing.

You can even spray your clothing with DEET or Permethrin. DEET is available in different formulations. 35% or higher active formulation is advisable for adults Children should use milder repellents. Use DEET-free repellent on babies only after reading all label instructions carefully.

The above mentioned mosquito control products can make a difference in your life.

Working Technique Of A Bug Zapper

The zapper is usually kept in a protective cage made out of plastic or metal. This is to prevent the user from coming in contact with the high voltage parts of the equipment.

Inside the apparatus, right in the middle of the mosquito zapper is a light source - a fluorescent lamp. The lamp is designed to emit ultra violet light that attracts insects. This light source is surrounded by electrically charged wire grids. Once a mosquito comes close to the mesh, current flows through its body killing it instantly.

The dead insects are then collected in the shallow trays fixed at the bottom of the zapper.

Drawbacks Of Zappers

• The count of mosquitoes collected in the trap is often very low as compared to the other insects. This is because mosquitoes are more attracted to water vapor and mammals rather than a light source.

• The bug zapper instead of killing the pesky insects often destroys those that are helpful to our environment such as the pollinating insects.
• The strong UV rays attract even those insects that are not in the vicinity.
• When the bugs touch the zapper, they produce a spray of bug intestines that can be inhaled by humans causing further problems. This aerosol often settles on the food kept close by.

Alternative Methods

There are several alternatives to kill mosquitoes in and around your home. Some safe alternatives are a mosquito attractant and a mosquito catcher. A mosquito attractant is an artificial pheromone especially made for catching mosquitoes. Once the mosquitoes are attracted towards this pheromone, they are caught in a net (mosquito catcher) where they die of dehydration.

You can also make use of plant oils like citronella oil, castor oil, peppermint oil and clove oil as a low-cost substitute of a mosquito zapper. DEET is another excellent mosquito repellent that has hit the market recently.

Conclusion

Now that you are well aware of the pros and cons of buying a bug zapper, give it a second thought before you bring it home. It is always advisable to go for alternative methods instead of the mosquito zapper. The reasons are obvious!