Prevention and relief
Mosquitoes love warm wet conditions, so a La Niña summer is a perfect breeding ground for the tiny flying pests. Unfortunately, some of these usually benign pests can carry mosquito-borne diseases, and when the forecast is for warm, wet weather forecast, the risk increases. So this Summer, it’s worth taking a few precautions.
How to avoid mosquito bites
Remove breeding spaces and use physical barriers
Less mosquitoes means fewer chances for biting, so start by reducing numbers near your home or campsite. Mosquitoes love to breed in stagnant water, so keep gutters clean and your backyard free from any containers that may hold water. Review your need for water features or bird baths that sit unused and stagnant. Keep your lawn mown and cover up any necessary tanks or other sources of water with mosquito screening.
Ensure you have appropriate insect screens on your home or tent while you sleep and use insecticide where necessary to remove mosquitoes from your space. You can also make it difficult for the mosquitoes to reach your skin by wearing long, loose-fitting clothing.
Insect repellant sprays
Sometimes you just can’t avoid enjoying the great Australian outdoors at the same time as the mosquitoes – dusk and dawn. At times like these we recommend a personal insect repellent spray, especially on exposed skin or if you know you are prone to bites.
Note: Not all sprays are appropriate for use on very young children. Please read the packaging or speak to your pharmacist for advice.
Relief from mosquito bite itching
Severe reactions to mosquito bites are rare, but please see your doctor if you develop a rash, or flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, headache, joint and muscle pain, fatigue, or generally feel unwell.
Otherwise, a quick wash with cold water and an ice pack can be your best friend when your prevention has not worked. There is also a range of home remedies but we recommend coming into your local Capital Chemist Pharmacy to grab a medicated cream or antihistamine to really get the job done. Scratching can break the skin and cause infection, so don’t suffer in silence or push through; take advantage of the best relief available to you.
Is it really a mosquito bite?
Unfortunately, with mosquitoes, you often find the bite before you realise they are around, so it can be hard to confirm. Luckily, the irritation from the bite usually provides a swollen, reddish bump within minutes which explains the uncontrollable urge to scratch. If you are concerned it may be something else, please see your local pharmacist or GP for more information and diagnosis.
For more information on other bites and stings:
For more information on mosquito born illnesses:
