How to Protect Yourself From Mosquitos

Mosquitoes are not only annoying pests that can ruin a peaceful evening outdoors, but they also pose health risks by spreading diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus. To enjoy the outdoors without the constant annoyance of mosquito bites, it’s essential to take preventative measures. Just so you know, we can spell mosquitos this way or mosquitoes. Source, Johnson Pest Control

Learning how to protect yourself from mosquitos may not be easy, but it can be done. These tips can help prevent bites from happening as much as possible. You can also use these tips for How to Get Rid of Chiggers

1. Use Mosquito Repellent

One of the most effective ways to ward off mosquitoes is by using mosquito repellent. Look for products that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as these ingredients are known to repel mosquitoes effectively. DEET, Picaridin, and Permethrin. These work great as well, Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Lanterns

You can try EPA-registered insect repellents. Apply the repellent to exposed skin surfaces, following the label instructions on the product label. Finding an effective repellent that works for you in your specific environment can be difficult, but the best way to see which one works is by trying multiple types. 

2. Wear Protective Clothing

Covering up your skin can act as a physical barrier against mosquitoes. Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes or hightop boots when spending time outdoors, particularly during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. 5 of the Best Winter Clothing Fabrics to Have on Hand

3. Avoid Perfumes and Scented Lotions

Mosquitoes are attracted to strong scents, including perfumes and scented lotions. To minimize their attraction, avoid using heavily scented products when you plan to be in mosquito-prone areas where you can attract mosquitos and acquire a mosquito-borne illness.

4. Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so make sure to eliminate any sources of standing water around your home. Regularly empty and clean birdbaths, pet water bowls, flowerpots, and gutters. If you live near a pond, consider having it professionally sprayed to kill the mosquito larvae. Ensure that your outdoor containers have proper drainage. Why You Need Emergency Water Storage

That includes making sure any outside planters have good drainage so they don’t become home to mosquito larvae. We all love flowering plants, particularly in the spring and summer when many are in bloom. It so happens that mosquitos love to be out at this same time of year.

5. Install Window Screens and Bed Nets

Keep mosquitoes out of your living spaces by installing window screens and bed mosquito netting. Ensure that the screens are in good condition and repair any holes or tears to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Use bed nets while sleeping, especially in regions where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent. Inspecting the gear you expect to protect you to make sure items haven’t become damaged is an important part of the protection plan you want to put in place.

6. Use Mosquito Traps

Consider using mosquito traps to significantly reduce the mosquito population around your home. These traps attract and trap mosquitoes using heat, light, carbon dioxide, or bait.

Place them strategically in your yard or patio to draw the mosquitoes away from you. Biting insects can ruin your time outdoors, so it’s super important to find something that works! Extra protection never hurt anyone. 

7. Time Your Outdoor Activities

Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. If possible, plan your outdoor activities accordingly. If you must be outside during these peak mosquito times, take extra precautions by wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellent. 9 Prepping Tips for Outdoor Survival

8. Keep Your Surroundings Clean

Maintain a clean and tidy outdoor environment to discourage mosquitoes from breeding near your home. Trim tall grass, remove debris and trash, and keep shrubs and bushes pruned. Mosquitoes tend to rest in shady areas during the day, so minimizing their hiding spots can be beneficial. 9 Ways You Can Use Your Yard for Prepping

9. Use Citronella Candles or Torches

Citronella candles and torches can help repel mosquitoes with their strong scent. Place them strategically around your outdoor space to create a mosquito-free zone. However, keep in mind that their effectiveness may vary depending on factors such as wind and proximity. 10 Clever Uses for Candle Wax

​10. Call a Professional 

If you live in an area with a high mosquito population or where mosquito-borne illnesses are prevalent, consider seeking professional pest control services. Professionals can provide effective mosquito control measures, such as fogging, to minimize the mosquito population in your area.

More Tips

• Try to avoid allowing mosquito eggs to be laid in your yard by spraying.
• Go out at different times of the day, so you are not subjected to the mosquitos. 
• Use essential oils where appropriate. 
• In the early morning, wear long sleeves or loose clothing for the best protection. 

What is the recommended method to protect against mosquitoes?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend using an EPA-registered insect repellent. Choose well and use repellent that contains active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

What can I do to prevent mosquitoes from breeding on my property?

Eliminate standing water in rain gutters, old tires, buckets, and other containers where mosquitoes can breed. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, so eliminating their breeding sites is crucial.

How can I protect my home from mosquitoes?

Use a checklist to take action and prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Avoiding mosquito-borne diseases is best achieved by preventing their entry into your living spaces.

What should I wear to avoid mosquito bites?

Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt made of tightly woven materials to keep mosquitoes away from your skin. Also, consider using a hooded top to protect your head and neck.

Some of the diseases you can get from mosquito bites are:

Note that some of the illnesses listed are more common outside the US, but are often contracted when people travel elsewhere.

• West Nile Virus (WNV)
• Chikungunya virus
• dengue
• malaria
• Zika virus
• La Crosse Encephalitis (LAC)
• Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV)
• Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE)
• Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
• Yellow Fever

What are some of the symptoms to look for if you’re concerned about mosquito-borne illnesses?

Of course, the symptoms will vary with the different illnesses. It’s also important to note that most mosquito bites DON’T cause sickness. If you see any of the following symptoms after experiencing mosquito bites you’ll want to check with your medical professional or visit a local clinic to be checked out. Better safe than sorry. Also note, most symptoms will appear within a few days to two weeks.

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache and general muscle and body aches
• Some high fever and chills
• Disorientation
• Stiff neck

More Tips to Check Out

• Bugs You Can Eat for Survival
• Keeping Pests Away from Food Storage
• 12 Natural Pest Remedies

Final Word 

Protecting yourself from mosquitoes is essential for both comfort and health reasons. With these tips, you can reduce the risk of mosquito bites and the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases for you and your family members. Remember to use mosquito repellent, wear protective clothing, eliminate standing water, and maintain a clean outdoor environment. With these preventative measures in place, you should be able to enjoy your time outdoors without the constant annoyance of mosquitoes. May God Bless this World, Linda

Copyright Images: Mosquitoes Swarm Flying In Park Depositphotos_563267414_S, Mosquito SprayDepositphotos_192265972_S