Mosquitoes — one of the oldest inhabitants on Earth — have been around for more than 30 million years. There are more than 2,500 different species of these two-winged insects, varying in size, life span, feeding habits, etc., that are scattered over all continents except Antarctica. Mosquitoes breed in standing water; be it flowerpots, buckets, dirty sewages, small swamps or huge lakes. Depending on environmental factors (temperature, etc.), it takes approximately 10-14 days for a mosquito egg to grow into an adult.
It is interesting to know that only female mosquitoes bite and feed on blood from people and animals, whereas male mosquitoes feed primarily on juices of various grasses and tree leaves. In fact, females do not require blood for their own survival, but they do need supplemental substances such as protein and iron to produce eggs. In a single feeding, a female mosquito typically consumes more than its own weight in blood.
When a mosquito bites a person it pierces the skin of its prey with a serrated proboscis containing two tubes. Through one, they inject saliva that numbs the area and acts as an anticoagulant, preventing the blood from clotting. Through the other, they begin to suck the blood. Often, the person doesn’t even realise they have been bitten until an allergic reaction causes the spot to swell and itch.
Mosquitoes have complex methods of detecting hosts and different types of mosquitoes react to different stimuli; most ‘flying terrorists’ are active at dawn and dusk, but there are also species that seek hosts during the day. According to world statistics, mosquitoes are responsible for more human deaths than any other creatures. Every year over eight hundred million people fall victim to mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, encephalitis and yellow fever with millions of cases resulting in death.
However, by following some simple rules, we can avoid being bitten and thus lower the risk of getting infected by dangerous mosquito-transmitted diseases.
Stop the breedingGet rid of stagnant water in and around your premises where mosquitoes can breed. Change water in vases every day and remove water from plant pot- plates every other day. Turn pails and watering cans over and store them under shelter. Once a month, pour granular insecticide in containers, vases and gully traps, even if they are dry — the insecticide will dissolve in the water and kill the mosquito larvae.
Avoid perfumeInsects are attracted by various body odours, which makes them choose some individuals over others in a crowd. Avoiding lotions and perfumes containing heavy fragrances will help you find yourself among those the mosquitoes find less appetising. When going outdoors, opt for light coloured clothing that covers most of the body, keeping as much skin and hair covered as practical.
Use mosquito repelling products There is a wide range of mosquito repellents on the market today, varying from mosquito sprays and mosquito repelling candles to plug-in appliances such as mosquito zappers and traps. Read the labels; repellents containing diethyl phthalate, diethyl carbate, N, N-Diethyl-3-Methylbenzamide (DEET), and ethyl hexanediol are most effective in deterring insects.
Lavender, sage, thyme, cedar wood and eucalyptus essential oils are traditionally known as one of the best natural ways to repel those nasty bugs. Oil of citronella is the active ingredient in many of the candles, torches or coils that can be burned to produce a vapour or smoke that fends off mosquitoes. You might also consider a device called a mosquito magnet, which uses a propane flame to produce carbon dioxide gas that attracts mosquitoes.
Go natural If you have a garden or grow plants in pots, switch to varieties that mosquitoes detest, such as lemon balm, citronella, catnip, marigold, geranium and rosemary. Try growing flowers that attract dragonflies and birds, both of whom will eat mosquitoes when they happen upon them; for the same reason, install a few bird houses to attract these helpful predators.
In case you got bitten after all, immediately wash the affected area with mild soap and water. If the area is itchy, do not scratch, as the skin may break and get infected. If the itch is intolerable, stroke the bitten area with finger pads, not the nails. Apply calamine lotion, antihistamine cream or surgical spirit to soothe the itch. In case the mosquito bite does not respond to topical treatments and the skin around the area becomes warm, red and swollen, call a medical practitioner as a stronger treatment may be necessary.