Summer is officially here and if you haven’t been bitten by a mosquito yet, you can bet one is coming soon. Not only are mosquito bites irritating, itchy, and annoying, they can also carry diseases like malaria, yellow fever, West Nile virus, and more. At our Charleston pest control office, we want to help you prevent mosquito bites this summer, so we’re offering some advice:
Sprays
These days, there are a variety of bug sprays that repel mosquitoes and help keep you safe. Sprays that contain DEET contain a chemical that is highly effective as a mosquito repellent, but if you don’t want to smell like chemicals, you can opt for a natural repellent like oil of lemon eucalyptus or catnip oil.
Candles
Citronella candles are an easy way to fend off mosquitoes without having to spray yourself down with repellent. Place a few candles around the area where you’re sitting and the smell will repel mosquitoes. You can also light regular candles – the smoke will keep mosquitoes away.
Standing Water
If you find that many mosquito bites happen in your back yard, look around for any standing water sources. Mosquitoes love to breed in standing water, so get rid of that terracotta pot filled with water, that bird bath, that kiddie pool, or any other object filled with water.
Foods
Certain foods are rumored to keep the mosquitoes away; one of them is garlic. The odor of garlic on your breath and the garlic that seeps through your skin is said to ward off mosquitoes. Vitamin B-1 is also said to help change your human scent and reduce your attractiveness to mosquitoes. Some foods to avoid eating are ones that are high in salt or potassium, as these will cause you to emit lactic acid (and attract mosquitoes).
Timing
You’ll find more mosquitoes out looking for a meal during dawn and dusk, so plan your outings accordingly. Heading out after the sunrise or sunset could reduce your chances of getting bit.
Perfumes
Mosquitoes love the smell of flowers and love the smell of a flower’s nectar, so avoid wearing sweet and/or flowery perfumes that can attract them to you. Also avoid using strongly scented soaps or shampoos.
If you do find yourself with a mosquito infestation in your home or office, don’t hesitate to contact the pest experts at our Charleston pest control company!
