Japanese mosquitoes
thrive in moist, wooded areas.
In Asia, Japanese mosquitoes carry Japanese encephalitis -- a potentially serious or fatal viral disease. The insects have spread to the U.S., but don't appear to spread Japanese encephalitis, although they can spread West Nile Virus or St. Louis encephalitis virus, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Repel Japanese mosquitoes with commonly available insect repellents. Does this Spark an idea?
DEET
DEET is considered the safest and most effective insect repellent available. It was first approved for public use in 1957 and has undergone extensive toxicity testing. Select a product with a concentration of at least 30 percent and use a controlled-release formula to extend effectiveness. DEET is approved for use on children ages two months and older at a concentration no higher than 30 percent. DEET has an odor that many people find objectionable and it may damage leather, plastic, auto paint and synthetic fabrics. Lotions usually last longer than sprays.
Picaridin
Picaridin has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2007, and lacks the long track record of safety maintained by DEET. It does not damage gear and has a more subdued odor. It is slightly less effective than DEET at repelling Japanese mosquitoes, but is more effective at repelling biting flies. Look for it at sporting goods stores if your grocery store doesn't carry it.
Natural Repellents
Fears over the safety of chemicals lead many people to prefer natural products. Unfortunately, most natural products have limited effectiveness. Oil of lemon eucalyptus is one of the most effective natural repellents, providing protection for four to six hours. It has a strong odor, though, and may cause skin irritation. Do not use it on children under age 3.
Permethrin
Permethrin is a pesticide available as a spray to treat fabrics and gear. Use it for an extra dose of protection when heading into moist, humid areas known to be infested with Japanese mosquitoes. Apply permethrin ahead of time so fabrics have time to dry thoroughly before use. Avoid flushing permethrin down the sink or laundering permethrin-treated items before the pesticide has dried. Doing so can pollute water systems. Once dry, fabrics can be safely laundered.
Tags: Japanese mosquitoes, Japanese encephalitis, many people, most effective, natural products