With the real and rising threats of mosquito-borne illnesses plaguing our societies, it is important that we take action that is both protective and preventative in dealing with this growing health crisis. There are simple but often overlooked actions we can take to reduce and completely eliminate the threats of infections being caused by these very small and crafty insects. Wearing lighter-coloured clothing, though not an exact preventative measure, does help reduce the volume of attack that may occur from mosquitoes, as they commonly gather where there are dark objects that may mask their appearance.
It is important that we become more informed about things that can be done at home and in our communities to protect ourselves and prevent the growth of the mosquito population, which has over the past two years spread two major ailments, namely chikungunya and the Zika viruses.
Here are a five major things you can do to both protect yourself and your families from the harm of mosquitoes, while also preventing the breeding of the insect in your homes.
1. Cover or eliminate all stagnant bodies of water – Mosquitoes require stagnant bodies of water to lay their eggs; it is therefore important that if there are any objects in and around the house that easily accumulate water, especially when there is constant rain, that these objects are either covered or completely removed to prevent mosquitoes from creating a home for their eggs. It is also very important to do regular checks on tyres, containers and flowerpots.
2. Install screens on windows and doors/ Bed Coverings – Preventing the entry of mosquitoes to your home is one way to protect yourself. These screens provide an extra layer of security against mosquitoes and other insects, while allowing you to leave your doors and windows open for the circulation of fresh air throughout your homes. Maintenance of these screens is also important as to ensure there are no tears in the fabric that will allow access. Bed coverings with an adequate length allow you to protect yourself from being bitten while you are deep in slumber.
3. Use an electric fan – Our body heat, odour and the carbon dioxide we exhale serve as indicators to mosquitoes of our suitability to supply blood to develop their eggs. Using an electric fan disperses these exhalations, making it more difficult for the mosquitoes to detect. Additionally, mosquitoes are not good flyers and can be easily swept off course by the strong gusts of winds that an electric fan provides.
4. Utilise mosquito repellents – There are many forms of mosquito repellents that may be used to reduce the presence of the insects in the home – from using an aromatherapy burner with a varied and scented oils and candles, to placing camphor tablets at strategic locations in the house; the scent of these items are potent deterrents of the unwelcomed insect. For personal protection, using skin-applied medication like deet are ways to aid in preventing making yourself targets for mosquito attacks.
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