6 Ways To Mozzie-Proof Your Home And Prevent Dengue
From keeping mosquito repelling shrubs to using coils and sticks, here are some easy methods to mozzie-proof your home
Ah, mozzies. They buzz about in your ear and their bites are infuriatingly itchy. But mosquitoes aren't just pesky and annoying little critters. They also happen to pose a very serious health risk and are known to transmit harmful human diseases.
With dengue on the rise (50 per cent up from last week), here are some simple solutions to mozzie-proof your home and reduce the likelihood of bites occurring. We recommend that you use several methods at once for multiple lines of defense.
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant (still) water. Empty and clear out all pools and puddles that could house mosquito larvae. Place used coffee grounds around areas in your backyard which could be harbouring larvae.
Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen once composted, which makes them extremely beneficial for the health of your garden soil.
Common breeding grounds
Tall grass
Bird baths and garden water features
Pot plant bases
Open bins
Drains and gutters
Poorly covered septic and rainwater tanks
Combatting pesky mosquitoes can often result in resorting to chemical sprays containing chemicals that may be harmful to beneficial insects, including bees. One of the best ways to reduce reliance on these products is to create a physical barrier between your outdoor entertaining zones and the mozzies.
A metre of machine-washable mosquito netting will set you back about $7 at Spotlight so if you're handy with a sewing machine, you can put up nets tailor made to your outdoor space.
Clothing is also a great barrier to mosquitoes, so if you know you'll be out at dusk (when they're most active) wear long-sleeved clothes and full-length pants.
Traditional mosquito repellent sprays usually contain an ingredient called DEET or picaridin. While highly effective at preventing mosquito bites, these ingredients may cause skin irritation in those with skin sensitivity.
When using these sprays, always follow the directions and be sure to thoroughly wash the spray off the skin when protection from mosquitoes is no longer required.
Mosquitoes can transmit human diseases, and preventing bites is the best way to reduce the spread of conditions including dengue fever and more.
Mosquito coils, when lit, provide a bite-free zone when dining outdoors. The lit coils provide a citronella and/or sandalwood aroma which helps to keep mozzies away. Try to look for coils that are environmentally friendly.
Natural favourites such as citronella provide only limited protection from mosquitoes, but are a good component of any multi-faceted mosquito repelling strategy.
Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide (which everyone breathes out) and citronella is thought to act as a mask, covering up scents which attract mosquitoes.
You can also get wearable bands and bracelets for those most susceptible to bites. Most importantly, it is a safe and non-toxic method of repelling mosquitoes. Eucalyptus oil is also known to be quite effective.
While scientific studies have found no evidence of plants that repel mosquitoes, some shrubs are thought to be effective in preventing the breeding of mosquitos nearby.
The theory goes that these plants give off natural odours that mosquitoes just can't stand.
Plants mozzies hate...
Tulsi
Mint
Marigold
Lemon trees
Neem trees
Citronella grass
Basil
Lavender
Catnip
Text: Homes To Love