Mosquito-proofing your home this summer
PLUS what do to if you or your kids get bitten.
Summer is meant to be enjoyed with friends and family outdoors but there’s nothing worse than having an afternoon ruined by the pesky mozzie.
Mosquitoes love the warmer weather just as much as we do, and this summer is no exception, with wetter and warmer days than usual creating the perfect breeding conditions for the little blood suckers.
Between a trusty repellent and taking extra care when you’re both indoors and outdoors, you can protect your family and rescue the backyard BBQ or camping holiday.
Here are a few handy tips for reducing the risk of getting bitten by mosquitoes and what to do if you or your family do get attacked.
Protect the family at home by preparing for the summer months
The humble fly screen is often overlooked, however it’s one of the easiest ways to protect your family indoors, especially as you sleep at night.
Ensure each window and door is fitted with a fly screen while also taking stock on those you do have installed, checking for holes or wear and tear. Mosquitoes are small insects, so you’ll want to patch or cover up any holes or tears in screens, where they might be able to sneak in and surprise you while enjoying a family meal or sleeping.
If this isn’t possible, consider installing a bed net throughout the summer months.
How to protect against mozzie bites PLUS what do to if you’re bitten
Enjoy what the outdoors has to offer
If staying indoors isn’t your cup of tea you can still enjoy the outdoors, but with a few simple precautions.
You can limit skin exposure to mosquitoes by covering up with loose fitting, long-sleeved clothing before heading outside however, covering up in summer isn’t always possible. It’s also important to keep in mind that mosquitoes can bite through clothing, so go for two-pronged protection and wear alongside a long-lasting repellent with a proven protection time.
Bushman’s Naturals pump spray repellent offers up to 9 hours of protection and is sweat and water resistant and safe for the whole family (12 months +).
If you prefer a bit more ambience, add a citronella candle or coil in conjunction with repellent, to limit the number of mozzies buzzing around the table.
As always, be sure to take extra precautions if you’re in a high-risk mosquito zone such as marshes, high grass areas or near bodies of water by checking with your local council or on the Smart Traveller website for information based on your current location or destination.
WATCH: Adele swarmed by mosquitos at Brisbane concert
What to do if you have mozzie bite
If you or you little one been attacked by a mosquito before you were able to apply repellant or light a citronella candle, resist the temptation of itching to avoid any scarring to skin. If you can’t resist the itch, do it with the flat of your fingertips, rather than the nails to prevent the skin from being broken.
Wash the area well and apply a topical treatment like calamine lotion to help reduce itching and inflammation. Alternatively, wrap an ice pack in a towel or a cool face washer to minimise pain and swelling.
If you find your toddler’s skin is itchy from a mozzie bite, you can try a soothing antihistamine such as Little Allergies, which, as well as relieving symptoms of hayfever and other allergies, it can also help relieve the itch.
Another product to have within handy reach is the Bug Bite Thing. As seen on Shark Tank, Bug Bite Thing is a painless suction tool that helps to relieve the itch and swelling caused by mosquito bites in adults and children over three years of age. The clever tool cost less than $15, it’s also really simple to use and easily fits in your bag.
I got bitten by a mozzie and something doesn’t feel right
While many of us are used to the itchy and inflamed reaction that a mosquito can inflict, a bite also increases the risk of exposure to mosquito-borne diseases.
One of the most common of these viruses in Australia is Ross River virus. It’s not very well known and sometimes heard about through family or friends who have been diagnosed with it.
Spread through the bite of an infected female mosquito, Ross River virus is a viral infection that can go undetected for months before serious symptoms are felt including fever, muscle tenderness, rashes or chronic fatigue.
While there is unfortunately no specific treatment for the Ross River virus infection, if you’re not feeling well and you suspect you may have contracted Ross River virus book an appointment with your doctor. They will be able to conduct testing and advise you on what medications can be used to help ease any symptoms.
