By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated in May that insect-borne disease increased from 27,000 in 2004 to 96,000 in 2016 — and that’s only reported cases.
These diseases include Lyme Disease, West Nile virus and newcomer Heartland virus, which has recently appeared in the .S.
While using insect repellant containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) can help prevent bites that could be infectious, some people don’t want to repeatedly expose themselves to the chemicals in repellants because of toxicity, especially when used frequently. A few other strategies can help prevent bites.
Joanne Wu is an integrative and holistic medicine and rehabilitation physician who specializes in wellness. She recommends using citronella, eucalyptus or tea tree oil.
“Add a couple drops to 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil,” she said. “It’s a natural repellent. Consider using astringents like witch hazel mixed with oils to spray.” This technique has been accepted by professional pest control montreal services as well. People can also check out a service like pest control Myrtle Beach or other pest control and animal removal services.
According to the experts found in this weblink, planting lavender around the yard and tossing a sprig of thyme in the fire on a chilly evening can also ward off mosquitoes and cockroaches, without the cost of cockroach fumigation.
Why do these work?
“It’s about masking your scent so it’s not attractive,” Wu said.
She added that seeking a good quality oil is important for maximum effectiveness.
Physician Sachiko Kaizuka, with Highland Family Health, added cinnamon to the list.
Always well diluted in a carrier oil, try clove, lemongrass, rosemary, cedar, catnip (if you don’t have cats), geranium, or mint oils as well. Although some people have success rubbing the above plants on the skin, the essential oils provide a more concentrated source of the properties that repel insects and they’re easier to apply in liquid form.
Kaizuka also recommends using physical barrier strategies such as “wearing long sleeves and pants” when walking in woods or gardening, she said.
Also, tuck pants into socks and check for ticks before coming indoors.
Light-colored fabrics help make ticks easier to see. Tightly woven material is tougher for the insects to penetrate.
In general, try to avoid areas with high grass and brushing through undergrowth and branches. That’s where insects like to live and wait for hosts.
If you choose a product containing DEET, select one with 15 percent or lower concentration of DEET to minimize exposure while still providing repellant, sometimes, it’s just best to go a more severe measure, such aa hiring the ant control Raleigh NC experts.
Don’t apply repellant indoors to minimize inhalation. Use only as directed on exposed skin.
Use flea and tick prevention measures on pets and check any pets that go outdoors. Ask your veterinarian before using essential oils with pets because cats and dogs can have serious reactions to them.
Eliminate sources of standing water, which is where mosquitoes like to lay eggs. Keep your yard mowed and bushes trimmed. You may also consider contacting pest control services to implement more effective measures that can help prevent mosquito infestations at home.
Mosquitoes aren’t as active mid-morning through early evening, so plan to perform yard work or engage in outdoor activities during those times.
Check your window screens and around window air conditioners for holes and gaps.