When sleeping in the great outdoors, campers may not get the protection they need simply by applying insect repellent. Mosquitoes aren't just annoying; they can cause illness or allergic reactions. If you don't want to suffer from insect bites and mosquito swarms, bring along a mosquito tent.
Mosquito Netting
Mosquito netting has long been a staple for people traveling in parts of the world where malaria and mosquito infection are a risk. Netting that is in direct contact with your body is useless, because mosquitoes and other insects can bite the skin through the netting. Instead, netting should hang over and around you. Netting is usually hung from a ceiling and spread around a bed or cot. It can also be hung over a wooden or metal frame structure, with the bed or cot inside.
Styles
Several styles of mosquito camping tents allow free movement and protection. Campers in sleeping bags can use the single model, which consists of a tent that fits snugly over the sleeping bag. It covers the upper body by sitting flat on the ground and rising above and away from your head. The double model is a two-person, mosquito-net tent with bracing and a zipper entry. Larger groups will want to consider a full-sized canvas tent, complete with mosquito netting over all windows and doors.
Why Protection?
Viruses transported by mosquitoes can be deadly. Malaria, West Nile, yellow fever and dengue are all transported through infected mosquitoes. In the United States, campers are susceptible to the West Nile virus, which can cause inflammation of the brain. Applying insect repellent is an important tool for fighting insect-borne diseases, but it is not enough for anyone in a high-risk area. A protective covering, such as netting or tents, is necessary.
Types
Not all mosquito tents are created equal, because not all netting is the same. Netting should protect you from the insects and mosquitoes found in the area where you are camping. The looser and wider the netting mesh, the higher the chance of insect entry. If you are camping in an area where sand and midge flies are a problem, make sure the tent netting will protect you.
Other Considerations
In highly dangerous areas where malaria and dengue are prominent, look for mosquito netting that has been treated with repellent. This kills the insects as they walk across or bump the netting and is added protection for anyone inside. A fine-woven, high-quality mesh helps block the entry of more than mosquitoes. Tents that are folded up and stored damp or wet are at risk for mildew. If you do not camp often, or if you camp in damp areas, look for mildew-resistant netting and tent material.
Tags: area where, insect repellent, mosquito netting, West Nile, where malaria