If one thing is certain about Alberta summers, it’s bugs…specifically, mosquitoes! With the record amount of rainfall we’ve had over the last few weeks, mosquitoes are out in full force. Whether you’re working outside or trying to enjoy the outdoors (when the rain eventually stops), you’ll likely spend much of your time swatting these unwanted guests away.
In today’s blog, we want to offer some tips to help keep these pesky, itchy insects at bay.
Dealing with mosquito bites
We’ve all experienced the discomfort of mosquito bites. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help soothe the itch and reduce irritation.
Antihistamines: Antihistamines are a popular treatment for mosquito bites and can help relieve itching.
Hydrocortisone: Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that helps relieve itching and swelling. Over the counter creams and calamine lotion are helpful options.
Ice: Applying ice can reduce blood flow to the affected area, helping minimize itching and swelling.
In most cases, mosquito bites cause only a few days of irritation before disappearing. However, mosquitoes can also carry West Nile virus. Most people who become infected won’t experience any symptoms.
If symptoms do develop, they usually appear 2–14 days after the bite.
- Fever
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Body aches
- A rash that usually appears on the chest
- Swollen glands
Most people with a mild case of West Nile virus will have a fever for approximately five days, a headache for up to ten days, and may feel tired for more than a month.
In some cases, West Nile virus can cause serious illness. It can lead to swelling of the brain, spinal cord, or the tissues surrounding them.
Symptoms may include:
- Severe headache
- High fever
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Tremors or convulsions
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Coma
If you experience any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 or contact your medical professional immediately.
“According to City of Edmonton data, on May 23 there were only five mosquitoes caught in the traps. Last Thursday, June 20, there were 534 — indicating the mosquito population has grown by over 10,000 per cent within a month.” – Global News Edmonton
Prevention tips
While it’s nearly impossible to avoid mosquito bites altogether, there are several steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting bitten.
At home:
- Check all window and door screens and repair any holes.
- Keep outside doors closed.
- Use mosquito netting or screened enclosures.
- Apply an insect repellent containing DEET.
- Consider using Thermacell devices in outdoor living areas.
In the yard:
Mosquitoes thrive in water and lay their eggs in standing water. That’s why it’s important to eliminate as much standing water as possible around your yard.
- Don’t allow water to remain stagnant for more than seven days.
- Regularly drain water that collects in and around your yard.
- Fix leaky outdoor faucets.
- Empty children’s wading pools, water tables, and watering cans.
At work:
If you work outdoors, it’s important to protect yourself from mosquitoes. To help prevent bites and possible infection:
- Use an insect repellent containing DEET.
- Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat.
- When possible, stay indoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
As much as we look forward to Alberta summers, mosquitoes are unavoidable. While you can’t eliminate every bite, taking a few simple precautions at home, in the yard, and at work can make a big difference. If you do get bitten, keep an eye out for symptoms that could indicate something more serious, such as West Nile virus. By staying informed and prepared, you can spend more time enjoying summer and less time scratching.