Every year around this time, our country starts its battle with dengue and malaria and while so much is talked about the prevention, not much is done to stop the breeding of the deadly mosquitoes that cause these diseases every year. So, it is essential that you protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquito-borne diseases by taking all the necessary precautions. One of the essential aspects of prevention of mosquito bite is to use a mosquito repellent.
What Is A Mosquito Repellent?
As the name suggests, a mosquito repellent is the one which can lower your risk of mosquito bites. There are numerous mosquito repellents that are available in the market. Right from electronic devices to coils and bats, there are numerous ways you can prevent the entry of mosquitoes into your home. Moreover, the use of natural mosquito repellent plants is also on the rise as these plants emit certain fragrances which help to prevent mosquitoes from entering your house. But these devices and plants provide protection only when you are in the house (indoors). They do not offer any protection outdoors.
So to prevent mosquito bites even when you are outdoors, opt for mosquito repellent creams and lotions. These repellents do offer protection both indoors and outdoors and are known to be safe for use in children. Applying a mosquito repellent is the best bet especially if you are planning to go out at night or are planning to visit a nearby park with your kids. It goes without saying that the use of these repellents is a must if you want to ward off mosquitoes during monsoons. It is also wise to carry a repellent when travelling to stay protected from mosquitoes.
You can even opt for natural mosquito repellents such as citronella oil, basil oil, etc which are widely use to prevent mosquito bites. Moreover, these are considered to be safe, especailly for children. However, before applying these essential oils on the skin, it is important to do a patch test to know if you are allergy to any of the active ingredients of the repellent. The same applies for chemical-based mosquito repellents.
How Does A Mosquito Repellent Work?
There are various types of mosquito repellents available in the market. The cream and lotion-based repellents contain chemicals which prevent the mosquitoes from feeding your blood. Some mosquito repellents contain pyrethrin extracts which paralyse the wing muscles of the mosquitoes and prevent them from affecting you. Whereas some repellents use chemicals which masks the human body odour, thereby making you virtually invisible to mosquitoes. It is the human body odour which attracts mosquitoes to a human.
How To Apply Mosquito Repellents Correctly?
To get the best results, it is important to use the right amount and the right way of applying mosquito repellents. Remember to apply a generous amount of the repellents. Also, safe application of repellents is important to prevent mosquito bites, get optimal protection and avoid any harmful side effects.
Here are some simple and effective tips on how to use a mosquito repellent cream or a spray.
1. How To Apply
-Apply the repellents to exposed skin, clothing, or both, but not under clothing.
-A thin layer can be applied to the face by dispensing repellent into the palms, rubbing hands together and then applying to the face.
-Use just enough repellent to adequately cover the exposed part. A mosquito can even bite on coin size unprotected spot.
2. Areas To Avoid
-Do not use repellents over cuts, wounds, inflamed or irritated skin.
-Do not apply them around mouth, eyes or genitals.
-Do not apply repellent to the hands of small children, as it can get rubbed into their eyes.
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3. When To Re-Apply
-Remember that heavy application or applying a thick layer will not increase the effectiveness. So, avoid doing that.
-The duration for which the repellent provides protection will vary depending upon the composition of the product, the amount of active ingredient present, air temperature, the amount of physical activity and perspiration, water exposure and other factors.
-Re-apply repellents according to label instructions.
4. When To Rinse Off
-The areas that have been treated with repellent should be washed with soap and water once the repellent is no longer needed.
-Repellent should be washed from the palms after application to prevent contact with the eyes, mouth, and genitals.
– Repellent should be rinsed off if it gets in contact with the palms or hands of infants or very young children as it can get rubbed off against their eyes and cause irritation.
So, go ahead and follow these simple tips for safe application of repellents and protect yourself and your family members from various mosquito-borne infections.
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