We all know mosquitoes multiply by the millions in the summer months. Not only can they produce itchy bites, but can potentially transfer deadly diseases (West Nile Virus), to your family and pets. Here are some great tips on how to avoid these tiny pests, and keep your loved ones safe! The zipcode that has had the most West Nile Virus deaths’ in Texas is 75225, which is located in University Park.

What/Who Attracts Mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes can smell their targets from up to 50 meters. Research has showed that people who have higher cholesterol levels or higher concentrations of steroids tend to attract more mosquitoes. But, this does not mean that mosquitoes prey only on people with unhealthy cholesterol levels, some of these people may be extremely efficient at processing cholesterol, but some of the remaining byproducts may be left on the surface of the epidermis.  Mosquitoes will also flock more to people who produce excess amounts of certain acids, such as uric acid & lactic acid. They also are attracted to perfumes. Mosquitoes find their prey by using their sense of smell. Carbon dioxide is a trigger for mosquitoes, so they will be more attracted to areas of greater carbon dioxide levels. Also, where there is greater movement and heat, this definitely will attract mosquitoes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tips for a “Mosquito-less” Home

 

  1. Purchase a good mosquito repellent, preferably one with the ingredient DEET.  Repellents with 23.8% DEET (most formulas contain between 10% and 30%) protect wearers for about five hours, according to a study led by Mark Fradin, PhD, a researcher with Chapel Hill Dermatology (Source Web MD).”
  2. Invest in some citronella candles or torches for your backyard. The scent of these particular candles deters mosquitoes. They are especially helpful if you are outside, or entertain guests in your backyard frequently.
  3. Avoid wearing dark or heavy clothes in the summertime, since mosquitoes are attracted to heat.
  4. Don’t waste your money on an electric bug zapper. These have proven to be ineffective on mosquitoes, and tend to kill the helpful and non-harming insects we need.
  5. GET RID OF ANY STANDING OR STAGNATE WATER IN YOUR YARD! This is crucial for eliminating mosquitoes since they breed and lay their larvae in these pools. This means any pet water dishes, bird baths, puddles in your yard from a leaking garden hose, or planters.
  6. Purchase a chemical spray for your backyard. There are many effective sprays you can purchase from your local home improvement, or grocery store. Many come easy to use in a bottle that just hooks up to your garden hose.
  7. There are certain foods you can consume that are supposed to lessen the chance of you getting bitten. These items have proven somewhat to deter mosquitoes: Garlic, Lemons, Brewer’s Yeast, and lemons.
There’s no need to fret, with some time and effort you can conquer mosquitoes in the battle you vs. them.