Pest expert alerts about ‘irritating’ mosquitoes – why they’re harmful

The warm weather has arrived, which brings more sunshine and longer days. This sounds great, but it doesn’t just bring humans to the great outdoors, but pests too, and some are more annoying than others. Pests cause damage to your property and carry diseases, which can be a real danger to your health. Among many unwanted living beings, mosquitos emerge at the top of pests to identify as soon as possible. Recognising the blood-thirsty insect before they become a wider pest problem is important. This limits potential damage to your home and prevents the possibility of you becoming ill after coming into contact.

Mosquitos are an irritating pest; most of the time, you won’t even notice their presence until you wake up the next morning covered in bites, Joshua Houston, pest control expert at  WhatCost, explains. They increase in volume during the Summer and can be identified through the small raised red bumps that they leave on your skin. According to Joshua, disease can be spread by mosquitoes as they are vectors, which means they carry diseases between animals and humans. The diseases they cause include: Chikungunya, Dengue, West Nile virus and Malaria.

They are most commonly found around places that contain water, such as; lakes, ponds, marshes, pools and birdbaths.

Why are mosquitoes so annoying?

Bite and itch

When a mosquito bites, it injects saliva into the skin, which contains proteins that trigger an allergic reaction in many people, Poison Control explains. This reaction causes the familiar itching, redness, and swelling around the bite. 

The discomfort of the bite can be quite annoying, especially if it causes sleeplessness or interferes with daily activities. Moreover, mosquito bites typically itch for three to four days, and the swelling can last for up to a week. 

Nevertheless, the duration of the bite’s discomfort can vary depending on individual reactions, such as allergic sensitivities or repeated scratching. 

Buzzing sound

According to MosquitoNix, the rapid flapping of a mosquito’s wings creates a buzzing sound, which can be quite irritating, especially when a mosquito is close to the ear. It might be valuable to note that mosquitoes are attracted to the heat and carbon dioxide exhaled by humans, making it more likely for them to buzz around our heads. 

Attractiveness to humans

In addition to the what and carbon dioxide exhaled by humans, mosquitoes are attracted to our smells. They can also be especially attached to some individuals with certain blood types and body chemistry.

Mosquitoes attacking humans can therefore result in a negative psychological impact, with people developing fear and anxiety. This can also negatively impact enjoyment of outdoor activities and overall quality of life. 

How to avoid getting bitten by a mosquito

Use insect repellents

Apply insect repellents to exposed skin and clothing, following the product’s instructions. DEET and picaridin are highly effective active ingredients. You can also opt for natural repellents.

As per Healthline, Lemon eucalyptus oil, Lavender, Cinnamon oil, Thyme oil, Greek catmint oil, soybean oil, Citronella, Tea tree oil, Geraniol, and Neem oil, are all effective natural scents that mosquitoes dislike.

Wear protective clothing and protect your space

Opt for long sleeves, pants, and socks, especially when outdoors. Loose-fitting clothing can be more effective than tight-fitting clothing. You can also fit your home with nests to keep the bloodsuckers away from you.

Avoid mosquito breeding sites

Eliminate standing water sources, including pet dishes, flower pots, and gutters, as mosquitoes breed in them. 

Stay indoors during peak activity

Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so consider remaining indoors during these times