Research-backed
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Summertime can mean long walks in the park, exploring the suburbs around sunset, but if there’s one thing that’s assured are mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are known to have killed more people than murderers have (1). In fact, taking it a step further, mosquitoes have killed more than half of the humans that have ever lived (2). So this summertime, you ought to watch out for those nasty, buzzing, flying insects.
From most reliable reports, India is now home to the Zika virus, exclusively spread by the mosquito (3). This four-millimetre long insect is responsible for not only the spread of Zika but two other deadly diseases too – dengue and chikungunya. While this is mostly confined to India and possibly a few surrounding areas, these diseases are not far from spreading to countries like the US. Some reports claim that it has already spread to 24 countries in the Americas (4).
Here are some ways you can prevent being infected with a mosquito-spread disease:
Prevention
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1. Cover Up
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During this season, you need to worry less about how your clothes will look to others and more about how well they offer you protection. The ideal is wear something loose fitting, long, and light coloured. This will be your first line of defence against mosquitoes.
2. Repel
Go out and buy some insect repellent. Something that contains picaridin or DEET also known as diethyl toluamide has shown to be very effective (5). Apply the necessary amount as indicated by the label’s instructions. Be careful not to overdo it, and you will achieve your desired result of keeping mosquitoes away from your home.
3. Get Rid Of Water
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Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. You might want to check your home and its surroundings for any stagnant water and get rid of it immediately. If the mosquitoes are not born near you, the fewer the chances you’ll be attacked by a disease-bearing insect.
4. Protecting Your Baby
It is important to cover your baby’s arms and legs, leaving no room for the mosquito to bite. Get your baby some loose fitting, light coloured clothing. You can also install mosquito proof mesh on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from coming inside. Mosquito nets can be a vital tool and should be employed if mosquito screens are absent. Place them over sleeping areas as well as strollers or prams that your baby lies in during walks.
5. When To Apply Repellent
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Applying repellent to a baby depends entirely on its age. If your baby is under two months, then using repellent is not recommended. In the case of older kids, repellents with 10% DEET is recommended. And after turning the age of 12 months, repellents that have picaridin are a good substitute.
6. Being Cautious
After seeing you spray your child with repellent a few times, it is easy for them to think that they can do it themselves. However, this is a grave mistake and should be avoided at all costs. Repellents cannot come near hands, eyes, or the mouth and you should take special care to ensure so.
After you are away from a mosquito-rich area, such as in the safety of your own home, thoroughly wash the clothes or skin of the child where the repellent was sprayed. It is essential that you follow the label’s instructions down to a tee. If misused, repellents can not just affect young children but also pregnant and breastfeeding women adversely.
7. Preventing Mosquitoes From Breeding
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Mosquitoes are not very particular when it comes to where they breed. They can adapt to fresh as well as salty waters and all they need is a water container or even just a puddle. You ought to cover things like water tanks with mesh that is mosquito proof and empty out water bowls for birds or pets at regular intervals.
Mosquitoes have the reputation of being history’s biggest killers and for a good reason. Science has come far enough that we now have preventive and protective measures against them. So do take heed of the points above and stay safe this summer.
