POTTSTOWN PA – As summer temperatures soar across Montgomery, Berks, and Chester counties, backyard barbecues are in full swing. Sadly, there’s one group of party pests that can quickly spoil sunny fun. They’re mosquitoes, individually or – worse – in swarms.
Here’s good news, according to infectious disease expert Dr. Sasha R. Azar. With a few smart strategies born of science-backed guidance, those enjoying the outdoors can keep the biters at bay.
Azar is an assistant professor who specializes in mosquitoes at Houston (TX) Methodist Research Institute, and also is member of its Center for Tissue Engineering.
Hit Back at Those ’Skeeters
His first tip? Azar says “the most effective way to prevent mosquito bites” starts with the backyard itself. Eliminate standing water there, “whether it’s in patio furniture, planters, or playground equipment. Getting rid of it removes spots on which mosquitoes rely to breed.
Second, use repellents to shoo them away. “Mosquitoes are more sophisticated than you think,” he explains. “They can detect the carbon dioxide you exhale from up to 30 feet away. As they get closer, your body heat and unique skin odors guide them in,” he adds. “Repellents like DEET, Picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are your best bet,” Azar suggests.
Third on his list: ditch citronella candles and bug zappers. “They’re not very effective,” Azar reports. Natural or DIY methods just don’t offer the same level of protection. In part, that’s because research shows skin microbiomes play a big role in attracting mosquitoes, “which is why some people seem to get more bites than others.”
Fourth, for families with kids or pets, Azar recommends considering the purchase of permethrin-treated clothing. It’s available at outdoor retailers as an added layer of defense. He suggests reading product labels to ensure selected items are suitable for the wearers.
Permethrin is a synthetic chemical insecticide. It acts like natural extracts from the chrysanthemum flower to control insects, according to the National Pesticide Information Center at Oregon State University.
Pay Attention to Symptoms
Lastly, Azar contends, know mosquito bite risks and pay attention to body signals.
Most mosquito bites are just itchy annoyances, he acknowledges, but some carry serious health risks. West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in the U.S. Many cases are mild but severe complications can occur, especially in children, older adults and those with underlying conditions, Azar says.
“If you develop symptoms like fever, headache or rash after being bitten, it’s important to consult a health care provider,” he warns.
Find more information about Houston Methodist online.
Written by Amy Craig for Houston Methodist Research Institute
Photo by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on Unsplash, used under license
Picnic photo by Alex Fedorenko on Deposit Photos, used by Travels With The Post under license
Article provided to Travels With The Post by Newswise, Charlottesville VA
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