Weather conditions nationwide this summer, bringing both rain and sunshine, created ideal breeding conditions for that familiar pest, the mosquito.
According to experts at the Lanacane Itch Information Center, female mosquitoes are the ones that bite and draw blood. Each can lay up to 1,000 eggs in a season.Here are some suggested ways to prevent and combat bites by mosquitoes and other insects:
- Avoid wearing brightly colored clothing when outdoors, which can attract insects of all kinds. Instead, wear neutral colors, long sleeves, socks and pants.
- Apply insect repellent, according to directions, while outdoors.
- Light citronella candles to ward off bugs at picnics and barbecues. Ensure no water collects in pots or buckets, since mosquitoes breed there. Cover food and beverages, which could draw wasps and bees.
- Carry topical anti-itch anesthetic products to use if bitten. Avoid scratching and breaking the skin, which can lead to infection.