Mosquitoes have long been one of the summer’s biggest pests. Not only are their bites annoyingly itchy, but the critters are also known for spreading diseases like West Nile Virus. And now, there is new widespread concern of a deadlier, even more aggressive mosquito species that is taking over the country.
The Aedes albopictus, better known as the Asian tiger mosquito, is a species of mosquito that first appeared in Texas in the 1980’s, but have only relatively recently become a bigger issue across the nation. The Asian tiger mosquito, which gets its name from the black and white stripes on its legs and body, has now been found in 26 states, including those as far north and east as New York and New Jersey. This specific breed of mosquito is especially pesky as it is known for being highly aggressive – it attacks both day and night, and it is seemingly unperturbed by attempts to swat or slap it away. The Asian tiger mosquito is also known for transmitting several diseases in addition to West Nile, including yellow fever, dengue fever, and encephalitis, according to the Cornell Chronicle.
As seemingly ubiquitous as these tiny pests are, there are ways to limit your chances of being bitten. Here are a few ways you can keep mosquitoes at bay this summer:
1. Get rid of standing water
Mosquitoes breed in any type of still, stagnant water. The Asian tiger mosquito is especially known for its ability to use even the smallest amount of water to reproduce – including objects as small as a bottle cap! Sweep your outdoor space for any small object that can collect even a few drops of water.
2. Use insect repellent
As obvious as this may seem, applying an insect repellent before venturing outdoors is a surefire way to reduce the likelihood of getting bitten by a mosquito. Products that contain DEET are most effective, but there are natural repellents that work as well.
3. Cover up
This may be a difficult task as the temperature rises throughout the summer, but limiting the amount of exposed skin you have can dramatically lower your chances of getting bitten. Wear long sleeves, long pants, or a hat when heading outdoors, especially at night.
How do you protect yourself from mosquitoes?
Feature image: undertheturnpike via photopin cc
