Mosquitoes are undoubtedly the most annoying insects. They often seek to feed on human blood in swarms. However, even one mosquito can ruin an evening around a barbecue fire or just chill on the patio. Not to mention the frustration of buzzing in your ears when you want to sleep.
Although we associate mosquitoes with the hot summer months, they are active even before and after summer. In the U.S., the mosquito season starts between February and April and lasts until mid-October. In warmer areas, they can be active until early November.
Diseases spread by mosquitoes
Health officials warn that about 176 different mosquito species pose health hazards across the country. Humans and animals are vulnerable to mosquito-borne diseases. Along with itchy welts on mosquito victims’ skins, their bites can have serious health complications. The most severe mosquito-borne illnesses include dengue, yellow fever, Zika, eastern equine encephalitis, chikungunya, and West Nile virus. Some of these conditions can cause brain damage. They could even be fatal.
Mosquitoes like water and dampness
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Therefore you can prevent them from breeding near your house by removing stagnant water. Remember that not only fishponds and other water ponds attract mosquitoes. Any hollow object that catches rainwater offers a breeding place. Likewise, water bowls for pets must be cleaned and refilled each day. It is also a good idea to water the garden after the worst heat of the day because dampness and moisture attract mosquitoes.
Ways to prevent mosquito bites
Preventing mosquitoes from breeding in wet areas around your home will certainly help. However, you may want to take other precautions to avoid being bitten. Burning citronella candles is an age-old repellent, and mosquito nets around the beds may be effective. Although aerosol insect repellents are available, you may prefer to use natural protection from these annoying insects.
Light-colored clothes
Mosquitoes are most active around sunrise and sunset. Reportedly, they see darker colors better than light colors. Therefore, choosing light colors when you dress may serve you well.
Mosquitoes don’t like wind
Mosquitoes struggle to fly in the wind, even light breezes. I have found that having a fan on in the bedroom eliminates the mosquito-bite risk. They are smart little critters and fly low if they detect wind blowing. Therefore, aiming the fan slightly downward is the way to go.
Use cloves as a repellent
Mosquitoes are put off by certain smells. For example, they hate the aroma of cloves. All you need to do is drop a few cloves in a small bowl of water on your nightstand. Another option is to cut an orange in half and stick some cloves into the orange flesh.
Lavender serves a dual purpose
Just like cloves, the smell of lavender keeps mosquitoes away. Planting lavender in the proximity of your barbecue area might be a good idea. Another trick is to rub your skin with lavender essential oil. The aroma has a calming effect, so it will also help you to sleep well.
And then there’s garlic
I am one of those people who can’t stand the smell of garlic. So, if that is the only way to repel these insects, I’ll pass. Nevertheless, eating a lot of garlic causes people to excrete a garlic smell from their pores. Smelling less like humans will keep mosquitoes away. Likewise, it may also keep people away, LOL.
To sum up
Regardless of where you live in the U.S. or another country, never lose sight of the dangers posed by mosquitoes. Also, don’t think they are only a problem in the summer months. Keep a lookout in spring and autumn also. Here’s hoping you stay welt-free and healthy until the first frost and snow.
