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The Bugs of Summer

By Henry J. Fishman, M.D.
ConsumerAffairs.com

July 21, 2005
Buzz, slap, ouch! It's mosquito season and with the West Nile virus having spread to nearly every state in the Union, it's more important than ever to prevent the little pests from bothering you.

Dr. Henry Fishman • New This Week • Previous Topics • About Henry Fishman • Radio Features

Start at home. Drain all standing water regularly, like your fountain, kiddie pool or old tires. Clean out your gutters and drains and check your window screens.

If you go out, clothe up from head to toe and avoid dusk and dawn, when mosquitos swarm. Be sure to wear an insect repellant. Less than 40 percent of folks who need them use them.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says four products work:

1. DEET, the old standby, works the best;
2. Pyrethrum has been around for years to spray on your camping gear and clothes;
3. Picaridin, a new spray, works well (learn more) as does oil of lemon eucalyptus;
4. Skin So Soft, Citronnela and other plantable oils work very poorly, as do mosquito zapping machines.

Whatever you use, follow the directions on the label, spraying repellant on exposed skin and your clothes. Avoid open cuts. Spray it on your hand, then apply it to your child. Avoid the eyes and mouth.

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