Here’s how you can avoid mosquito bites (and stay healthy!)

Have you been clapping about a lot of late, and not necessarily because you’re happy? Well, chances are, you have the typical mosquito menace to blame!

With the monsoon bringing in water-logging problems and a general increase in the kachda and dump around us, no wonder these tiny but extremely annoying (not to mention unhygienic) creatures are troubling everyone.

5 health hazards of mosquito bite

1. Encephalitis – A condition in which mosquito bite leads to inflammation in the brain and spinal cord.
2. Zika – A condition where you have symptoms such as fever, red eyes, joint and muscle pain, rashes and headache.
3. Guillain-Barre – A condition that affects the nervous system and may also cause paralysis.
4. Microcephaly – Affects the brain development of unborn babies and may lead to developmental, intellectual and other delays.
5. Dengue – Can cause high fever and bleeding from the nose or gums.

(Image Source: 1001gardens.org)

How to avoid mosquito bites

While there is an increase in the number of mosquitoes during certain months of the year, it is advisable to stay protected through the year. Here are a few tips that can help you stay safe from the mosquito bite.

1. Mosquito repellent – Use one that has a DEET reading between 30 to 50 percent.
2. Plants that repel bugs – Have plants such as lemon, basil or even peppermint around the house, such as on your windowsill, kitchen area and so on.
3. Athletic wear – If you often exercise in the open or go for walks, wear sporty clothes that are made of nylon, rayon and polyester. These are very tightly woven and make it difficult for the mosquitoes to bite through.
4. Wear closed shoes – Did you know that the mosquitoes responsible for spreading Zika often attack the feet first, as they are attracted to sweat patches? Wearing closed shoes can help!
5. Avoid floral scents – Certain floral scents can in fact attract mosquitoes. Next time you’re wearing one and feel the bugs a little too much, make a note and refrain.

DIY homemade mosquito repellants

• Light pieces of camphor in the room, close the doors and windows for about 20 minutes and let the smoke spread.
• Cut a lemon in half and stick about 12 cloves in the piece. Place in a corner of the room.
• Add mint leaves in a spray bottle and spray around the house.
• Add lavender or tea tree oil in your diffuser.