What’s the Buzz? How to Control Mosquitoes and Keep Bites at Bay

Here are some steps to help prevent mosquitoes from biting: 

• Wear protective clothing: If possible, wear long sleeves and pants and tuck your shirt into your pants, and your pants into your socks. Wear light colors because mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors. 
• Use the right kind of repellant and apply after sunscreen. The only effective mosquito repellants are the ones registered with the EPA . That means they contain any of these ingredients:
  • DEET
  • Picaridin
  • IR3535
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus
  • Para-menthane-diol
  • 2-undecanone
• Avoid being outside during prime mosquito time: Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and in the evening when the sun goes down. 
• Make sure your home is well screened: Installing screens on your windows and doors will help keep mosquitoes out of your house.
• Get rid of standing water around your yard—mosquitoes lay their eggs in water. The dirtier the water, the more they love it. Think: birdbaths, rain barrels, clogged gutters, puddles, kids’ buckets—anything that collects water. For birdbaths, change out the water regularly. 
• Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting: Infants need extra protection, also because many of the repellants are not safe for newborns.  

>Related: How to avoid tick bites and do a tick check the right way
 

Here are a few way to relieve the itching and swelling from mosquito bites.

• Wash the area with soap and water: This will help keep it clean and prevent infection. 
• Treat the area with a cold compress: This will help keep the swelling down. 
• Consider over-the-counter creams or antihistamines: Ask your pediatrician what is safest for your child’s age. 
• Always see a doctor if you are worried about infection: Monitor the bites for any changes. If they become red, swollen or painful, it’s time for a checkup. 

What are the symptoms of mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile Virus?

A mosquito in Darien, CT recently tested positive for West Nile Virus. While there is no reason to panic, it’s always important to be on high alert. Symptoms vary greatly by disease, but watch out for:

• Flu-like symptoms after getting bitten: fever, headaches, body aches, and chills 
• Rashes
• Nausea
• Eye irritation
• Fatigue

Any of these symptoms may be related to other conditions or illnesses. If you recently traveled to a region inside or outside the US that’s high risk for mosquito-borne diseases, and have these symptoms, call your doctor.
 

Here are some additional mosquito prevention tips:

• If sleeping outdoors uncovered, use mosquito netting: The CDC recommends white, rectangular netting with at least 156 holes per square inch so the mosquitoes cannot sneak through. Nets treated with permethrin are best. 
• Buy citronella candles: These can help to repel mosquitoes in a small area. Use them as a centerpiece for a gathering. 
• If you have a pool, keep the water treated and circulating regularly.

By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from mosquito bites and mosquito-borne diseases.