Earlier this month, Discovery used its global reach to focus the world’s attention on the single greatest agent of death in modern human history: the mosquito. The international crisis was highlighted in the worldwide premiere of the Discovery Impact film MOSQUITO last July 6th at 9:50pm on Discovery Channel and Discovery Networks around the world.
Here in the Philippines, the rainy season has officially begun and as much as we enjoy the cold weather, the wet season poses a potential threat to all in the form of dengue, a mosquito-borne disease which is mostly seen during the rainy season. A minor bite from this tiny creature can be more fatal than we think.
Recent news around the world has reported various cases of mosquito-borne diseases like Zika, Malaria, West Nile Virus, Yellow Fever, Chikungunya and Dengue. The question is: How do we get rid of mosquitoes in our homes? Below is a list of safety measures we can take to stay healthy and make our homes clean, safe and mosquito-free:
• Get rid of stagnant or standing water.
Since mosquitoes breed in standing water, we need to clean up our area and eliminate stagnant water inside and around the house. We should also clean containers that could possibly be a breeding nest for mosquitoes such as vases, pots and basins.
• Apply mosquito repellent.
Mosquito repellents come in different forms (arm bands, necklace and strips), but the most effective mosquito repellents are those applied to the skin. Whenever you leave the house, make sure you are protected by wearing good mosquito repellents.
• Wear proper clothing.
To protect yourself from mosquito bites, wear long sleeves and pants, especially when travelling or going out of town. Tight-fitting clothes are not advisable as disease-carrying mosquitoes are able to bite through this type of clothing.
• Watch your scent.
Mosquitoes are attracted to old sweat and not the fresh and odorless one that our body produces after exercising. Sweat begins to smell when mixed with bacteria, which creates chemical compounds that attract mosquitoes.
• Keep away from dirty water.
Avoid getting near clogged gutters and flooded areas as these are commonly present during the rainy season.
• Plant mosquito-repellent herbs in your garden.
Best to place plants like basil, citronella, lemon balm, and garlic in your garden. Aside from beautifying your home, these plants will drive mosquitoes away because of their smell.
• Spray insecticide.
Spray insecticide in the dark corners of the house. As much as possible, spray during daytime and use water-based sprays which are safe to humans and toxic-free.
