The Exhaustion of Mosquito Season: A Parent's Survival Guide

Why Mosquito Season Is So Dangerous

• West Nile virus - The most common virus spread by mosquitoes in the continental United States
• Dengue fever - Causing fever, rash, and terrible body aches
• Zika virus - Particularly concerning for pregnant women
• Chikungunya - Leading to joint pain that can last for months
• Eastern equine encephalitis and St. Louis encephalitis - Less common but potentially serious infections
• Japanese encephalitis - A concern primarily when traveling to certain parts of Asia
• Yellow fever - A risk in specific regions globally
• Malaria - A major concern when traveling to affected regions

The Right Insect Repellent Makes All the Difference

• DEET-based repellents (N,N-Diethyl-m-tolumide)
  • Most effective option available
  • Safe for children older than 2 months when used as directed
  • Products with 30-50% concentration provide longer-lasting protection
  • Higher concentrations (above 50%) aren't necessary for skin and should only be used on clothing
• Icaridin/Picaridin
  • Effective alternative to DEET
  • Look for products with at least 20% concentration
  • Often less oily feeling than DEET products
  • Effective against multiple insect types
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora oil, hydrated, cyclized)
  • Natural alternative that needs at least 30% concentration to be effective
  • Provides 4-6 hours of protection
  • Requires more frequent reapplication than DEET
  • Seek immediate medical attention if accidentally applied to the eyes
• IR3535
  • Less effective against certain mosquito species
  • Better suited for areas without malaria risk

How to apply repellent properly:

• Apply to all exposed skin not covered by clothing
• Apply after sunscreen (note that repellent may reduce sunscreen effectiveness, so use SPF 30-50)
• Reapply regularly, especially after swimming, washing, or heavy sweating
• For face application, spray onto hands first, then carefully apply, avoiding eyes
• Keep away from synthetic materials and plastics (can damage items like credit cards, phones, watches)

What NOT to rely on:

• Oil of Citronella products (only work for a very short time)
• Bath oils and skin softeners
• Alcohol consumption
• Electronic buzzers or mobile phone apps that emit high-frequency sound waves

Protective Clothing Strategies

• Wear loose-fitting garments (mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing)
• Choose clothing with:
  • High necklines
  • Long sleeves
  • Long trouser legs, or skirts/dresses
  • Socks to protect ankles
• For enhanced protection, consider:
  • Treating clothes with permethrin insecticide (available as spray or wash-in treatment)
  • Purchasing pre-treated clothing
  • Note that frequent washing reduces insecticide effectiveness

Creating Mosquito-Free Zones

Control Mosquitoes Outside Your Home

Weekly water patrol

• Regularly inspect and empty any items that collect water:
  • Children's toys left outdoors
  • Kiddie pools (empty when not in use)
  • Plant saucers and containers
  • Bird baths (change water frequently)
  • Playground equipment that might collect rainwater
  • Wagons, buckets, and outdoor kitchenware
  • Forgotten cups or containers

Larger water management

• For containers that must hold water:
  • Cover with tight-fitting lids or fine mesh
  • Add appropriate larvicides when covering isn't possible
  • Ensure pools are properly treated and maintained
• Address structural issues:
  • Clean gutters to prevent water accumulation
  • Fill tree holes with expandable foam
  • Fix leaky outdoor faucets
  • Address drainage problems in your yard

Target adult mosquitoes

• For persistent problems, consider:
  • Applying appropriate outdoor insecticides in shaded resting areas
  • Focusing on dark, humid spots where mosquitoes rest during daylight
  • Following all product directions carefully
• Create unfavorable conditions:
  • Use outdoor fans (mosquitoes are weak flyers)
  • Maintain your lawn (shorter grass provides fewer resting places)

Control Mosquitoes Inside Your Home

• Keep mosquitoes out
  • Install or repair window and door screens.
  • Close doors, including garage doors (avoid leaving them propped open)
  • Use air conditioning when possible.
• Eliminate indoor breeding sites
  • Check for and empty any standing water weekly.
  • Pay attention to vases, flowerpot saucers, and other containers.
• Target mosquitoes that make it indoors
  • Use indoor insecticide sprays or foggers.
  • Consider hiring pest control professionals for persistent problems
  • Remember that indoor sprays work quickly but may need reapplication.
• Use structural barriers
  • Seal gaps in walls, doors, and windows, ensure screens are well-maintained, and fully cover baby carriers and beds with netting.

Mosquito Nets: An Essential Tool

• Check for holes before use (repair with needle and thread if found)
• Tuck the net under your mattress at night.
• Collapse or tuck it up during the day.
• Ensure enough space so your skin doesn't touch the net (mosquitoes can bite through)
• Consider nets treated with insecticide for enhanced protection.
• Use nets over strollers, cribs, and play areas for infants.

Handling Mosquito Bites When They Happen

• Clean the area with soap and water.
• Apply a cold cloth to reduce swelling and soothe itching.
• Use bite relief creams or ointments containing:
  • Hydrocortisone 1% (steroid)
  • Antihistamines
• Consider oral antihistamines for severe reactions (consult with a pharmacist first)
• Prevent scratching to avoid skin damage and bacterial infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• Develops a fever following mosquito bites
• Shows signs of an allergic reaction (significant swelling, hives, difficulty breathing)
• Has bites that appear infected
• Seems unusually lethargic or confused after being in a mosquito-prone area

Finding Balance During Mosquito Season

• Use it as a teaching moment about nature and insects
• Create fun indoor activities for peak mosquito times
• Remember that mosquito season doesn't last forever

Conclusion