While the summer months are a great time to enjoy the great outdoors, mosquitoes can sometimes spoil your fun! Unfortunately, these insects thrive in the warm weather and can become a real nuisance if you are not adequately prepared. There are several things you can do to reduce or eliminate the number of mosquito bites. Here are the top 4 ways to prevent mosquito bites this summer:
1. Use Insect Repellent
To prevent mosquito bites, you should use insect repellent when you are outside. The prime mosquito hours are from dawn to dusk, so it is especially important to be protected during this time. You may also be more susceptible to bites if you live in a wooded area or are taking a summer hike through the forest. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the best insect repellents are the ones that contain DEET or picaridin as active ingredients. These repellents generally provide protection that lasts longer than others, so be sure to read the ingredients on the label when choosing bug repellent.
2. Wear Pants and Long Sleeve Shirts
While this may make you groan on a hot summer afternoon, wearing pants and long sleeve shirts when you are outdoors will prevent mosquito bites. Although this may be a bit uncomfortable, it’s better than being covered in mosquito bites! There are many lightweight, long-sleeved, and bug-resistant shirts on the market, so check with your favorite shop to see what might be available.
3. Prevent Standing Water in Your Yard
If you have any standing water accumulating in your yard, remove it as quickly as possible because this is where mosquitoes breed! This is especially important to remember after a period of heavy rain where flower pots, bird baths and other basins can quickly fill with water. If you change the water in bird baths on a regular basis, empty excess water from flower pots, drain the water in children’s pools, and eliminate other areas where water can pool, you can reduce the number of mosquitoes in your yard!
4. Keep Your Porch Screens in Good Condition
While mosquitoes are most likely to bite you while you’re outside, these pests can also get inside of your home if your screens are not in good condition. Fix any screens with holes or tears immediately to avoid getting bitten. You want to relax on your deck or porch this summer to enjoy the pleasant weather, not get eaten alive by bugs!
What to Do If You Do Get Bitten
It can seem almost impossible to prevent getting bitten by a mosquito at least once during the summer, so if you do get bitten, there are several easy methods for relief! You should wash the area around the bite with soap and water, or use a cold compress if the itching or swelling is particularly bad. You can also use calamine lotion, an over the counter hydrocortisone cream, or a topical antihistamine to help relieve the itch.
We hope you can enjoy the great outdoors and avoid mosquitoes! At Mac’s Pharmacy, we are dedicated to improving your health and well-being. Learn more about how we can assist you with all of your pharmaceutical needs!
