Staying Mosquito Free While Traveling
by: Sarah Yee
The last thing that any traveler needs is to be plagued by mosquitoes
throughout their journey. Just as there are sure-fire ways to reduce
the incidence of these pests in the home environment, definite steps
can be taken to stave them off when you’re away from the home
front. This is especially important in a society that’s been afflicted
by the variety of diseases that are commonly carried among the mosquito
population.
Just as that which is red is known to enrage and attract a bull, dark
clothing will invite mosquitoes. Avoid the tendency to wear garments
that are darker in color or shade, if you’re interested in keeping
mosquitoes at bay. In addition, scents such as colognes, perfumes and
after-shave also provide an invitation to these pesky insects.
Air-Conditioned environments are not conducive to providing the type
of scenario that mosquitoes prefer. Whenever possible, stay indoors
in a climate-controlled area so that you’ll remove the possibility
of mosquitoes becoming a nuisance. You may still find the occasional
errant mosquito, but will typically be safe in the air-conditioning.
This is true for both the daytime and nighttime hours.
If at all possible, try to avoid participating in outdoor activities
at night. After the sun goes down, the atmosphere is ripe with mosquitoes,
and the possibility of being bitten is increased significantly –
especially if there happens to be a body of exposed water nearby, since
this is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
When the need to go outdoors in the evening can’t be avoided,
be sure to wear appropriate clothing that will discourage mosquitoes.
Covering the arms and legs is always a good idea, since they tend to
gravitate toward human extremities – particularly the legs, ankles
and feet. Long-sleeved shirts, full-length pants and closed shoes are
your best choices.
For those who prefer to spend time in an enclosed screened area –
such as a screened porch – mosquitoes may be able to gain access
to the room through holes in the screens or other areas which aren’t
sealed. In the event that this happens, and the room is screened, you
can apply pesticide to the interior of the room. Don’t make the
mistake of doing this if the room isn’t properly ventilated by
screens, though, or you may be overcome by the effects of the spray,
as well.
If you’re sleeping outdoors (such as in a camping scenario),
or need to open a window that doesn’t contain a screen when you’re
sleeping each night, be sure to use mosquito nets that are designed
to cover the bed area. Not only are you more vulnerable to bites when
asleep – due to the inability to protect yourself and the fact
that mosquitoes are out in force at night – but it only takes
one bite to become infected by one of the many diseases that these pests
can carry.
Insect repellants are always a good idea, and can even help to reduce
the incidents of mosquito bites when indoors. There are a number of
effective repellants on the market today which are easy to apply and
non-greasy. This should be applied to all exposed areas, with the exception
of those that are in the immediate vicinity of the facial features,
and is effective when used on both adults and children.
Fighting mosquitoes doesn’t have to be difficult, expensive or
troublesome. With just a bit of effort, you can ensure that you and
your loved ones are basically mosquito-free.
About The Author - Sarah Yee is a writer for http://www.mosquitocontrolguide.com,
which mosquito information and mosquito control tips both at home and
on the road.
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