I learned recently that mosquitoes are one of the most dangerous creatures on Earth. At first, I was surprised. I bet you are too.
Mosquitoes are the deadliest animals on Earth. And you may think that to be an exaggeration – but it’s not. Sure, a tarantula can kill you. But they normally don’t – unless they are in front of you and feel threatened.
On the other hand… I can’t say the same thing about mosquitoes. No other creature comes close to the death toll they rack up each year, with over 400,000 humans killed by malaria alone. With mosquitoes outnumbering every other animal, it’s time to take action against this menace before it wipes us out. Plus, they spread diseases like malaria and dengue fever. And they seem like they’re everywhere, buzzing in your ear.
How Do They Manage To Do This?
With their long proboscis – or straw-like mouthpart – mosquito sucks up our blood. They then deliver the parasite that causes diseases. When mosquitoes feed on humans, they can transfer anything from yellow fever to West Nile virus to chikungunya virus! Yes, that’s scary, for sure.
How Do Mosquitoes Defend Themselves?
Don’t get fooled by their size. It is not easy to kill mosquitoes. They can resist harsh environments like rain and high temperatures. Their skin is so tough that they can resist exposure to chemicals. Mosquitoes also excrete acid, which they use to burn our skin when we try to get rid of them!
Mosquitoes can carry diseases because, surprisingly, they can become infected themselves. Mosquito larvae, for instance, acquire diseases such as malaria from the water where they hatch.
They are deadly, and you don’t even know when and where they can bite you! It’s as good a horror film as they come!”
USA Tales
As they mature into adults, these infected mosquitoes can spread the malaria parasite to various animals. Yes, this list includes birds and humans, through their bites. By feeding on the blood of their victims, mosquitoes can transmit diseases like malaria to unsuspecting hosts.
Mosquitoes breed in diverse environments, not just in tropical regions. Some species can thrive even in desert climates where food sources are scarce.
Harmful Diseases Spread by Mosquitoes
These small creatures can secretly inflict harm on you by spreading dangerous diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, and the West Nile virus.
As someone who has suffered from dengue fever, I wish that no one else has to go through it.
So, how do these mosquitoes survive and make our lives hard? Mosquitoes feed on warm-blooded animals such as humans, birds, and mammals because these animals produce a lot of heat needed for survival. They also feed on plant nectar high in sugars that they need for energy to fly or lay their eggs on the ground, where the eggs hatch into larvae called “maggots.”
Let’s now look at some behaviours you must follow to prevent mosquito bites and outbreaks of these diseases.
- The first thing you need to do to prevent mosquito bites is to avoid standing water, where mosquitoes lay their eggs. Limiting or removing any standing water found on personal property will significantly reduce the number of mosquitoes. Eliminating open water containers is the first line of defence against these insects. If a pot with standing pooling water is not used, the eggs cannot hatch into larvae, and no diseases will be passed on to animals or humans with no prior immunity.
- Another line of defense against mosquitoes includes treating all pools of water near house foundations, birdbaths, pet dishes, and other standing bodies around the home with a larvicide or pest control. The larvicide prevents mosquitoes from laying their eggs. When applied, it kills any larvae that may already be present in the pool of water so that no more can develop and further harm humans or animals who come into contact with them. This will surely stop mosquito breeding.
To make you worry less, here is a list of to deter these pesky little pests from ruining your day.
1. Plants
Certain plants, such as catnip, basil, and mint, naturally repel mosquitoes by releasing chemicals that keep them away. Try planting some in your garden or on your balcony for extra protection.
This trick will also add vibrancy to your surroundings, potentially contributing to a happier mood.
2. Dryer Sheets (and Other Scents)
This is a good one if you like to use dryer sheets in your house. The trace amounts of chemicals dryer sheets leave behind will give them a distinct scent that the mosquitoes don’t like.
You can even put a few drops of lavender or peppermint essential oil on the sheets. But remember that you don’t want to use this method when you’re outside. The scent can attract unwanted attention from bees and other insects.
3. Citronella
You may have seen citronella candles or torches at your local grocery store. These are great because they help repel mosquitoes and create a nice and relaxing atmosphere for you and your guests (they’re also good if you like to cook outside).
Just ensure that if little children are around, the citronella is enclosed in something tall to prevent them from accidentally burning themselves.
4. Bug Spray
While a bug spray bottle is not the best way to eliminate mosquitoes, it is one of the most effective. Use any kind of bug spray you like, but be sure it has some sort of mosquito repellent. The more, the better!
Take the spray and chase away these dangerous little creatures away.
Find the insecticide that works best for you at your local drugstore or supermarket. You can also use some insecticide to kill mosquito larvae if they grow near you.
5. Bug Zapper
Bug zappers serve as convenient mosquito traps, but their effectiveness relies on the visibility of flying insects. However, investing in one can be worthwhile if you struggle with lingering mosquitoes on your patio or deck after sunset, plus you’ll get a free arm workout!
6. Bed Covers
If bed covers are your main defense against bugs, make sure they have some type of repellent on them. Don’t use any kind of chemical-infused fabric because they can attract mosquitoes.
You could always try making your mosquito netting by tying some old sheets together or by weaving strips of material through the openings in your window screens. To complete the look, you could even spray this style with bug spray so they can’t get through.
7. DIY Insect Repellents
If you are a fan of DIYs, then why not make an insect repellent? Although not very popular, you can make your homemade mosquito repellent by mixing a little bit of lemon juice, a few mint leaves, and a few cloves of garlic. Mix it into a fine paste and spread it over the exposed parts of your skin. Let it dry for about ten minutes before going outside.
This is a good idea if you enjoy gardening in the yard or hiking because the mosquitoes don’t like the smell of garlic or mint.
8. Keep Moving
I know this is not a full-fledged solution, but it is probably one of the most basic and easiest methods to prevent yourself from getting bitten. Simply stay up and keep moving around. This keeps mosquitoes away because they like to land on things that are still. So, the more you move around, the less likely you will get bitten.
9. Take Garlic Supplements
Take up some garlic supplements if you don’t like eating garlic. The B vitamins in garlic help your body naturally repel mosquitoes (And many other bugs, too). It is also good for heart health, so make sure you eat some each day!
10. Keep Your Bed Clothes Clean
After showering, avoid allowing your bedclothes to become soaked with water, sweat, or bug spray. Excess moisture on your skin gives mosquitoes more opportunities to bite and thrive in your bedroom.
11. Keep Your Fingers Clean
One of the simplest ways to keep mosquitoes off is with clean hands. Mosquitoes don’t like the smell of fresh hand wash. So wash your hands before you go out for a jog or climb into bed at night.
12. Keep Your Hands Coated
In addition to washing your hands, you might also want to coat them with a thin layer of lotion or oil. This will create a barrier between your skin and the mosquitoes so they can’t bite you.
13. Keep Your Feet Clean
Just like making sure your hands are clean, you’ll also want to ensure your feet are clean. Mosquitoes don’t like the smell of strong-smelling soap on their feet (such as mint or rosemary). Apply a little bit before going on a walk outside or going to bed at night. This works better than deodorant because deodorants can attract bugs you don’t want!
14. Don’t Sit By a Refrigerator
Leaving your refrigerator door open can invite mosquitoes into your home, but it’s essential to note that there are already plenty of mosquitoes in the kitchen. Therefore, it’s crucial to avoid leaving your freezer unlocked for any period.
So, if you have kids in your house who like to stand in front of an open fridge, find another activity for them, as many mosquito species are drawn to the scent of spoiled food, so keeping your refrigerator closed and ensuring garbage bags are kept away from it is essential.
Conclusion
In conclusion, protecting yourself and your loved ones from mosquito bites is essential for maintaining health and comfort, especially in areas prone to mosquito-borne diseases.
By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, such as eliminating standing water, using natural repellents, and maintaining cleanliness, you can reduce mosquito populations and minimize the risk of bites.
The battle with mosquitoes might never end, but let’s ensure that our health doesn’t suffer. Remember, a proactive approach to mosquito prevention is key to enjoying outdoor activities and ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep.
Last Updated on by Apeksha Soni, B.Tech
