PhotoMosquitoes are the biggest threat to human life. It’s estimated that they kill 725,000 people every year. These tiny insects are not great flyers but they are experts in locating food sources through body heat and carbon dioxide output.
They stealthily approach and you are often not aware of their presence until they are right by your ear with their distinctive whine.
Mosquitoes need human blood in order to complete the reproduction process. That’s why it’s only females that suck your blood. In most cases, you’ll get a lump where they have bitten and it’s likely to be very itchy. This is because of the saliva the mosquitoes inject into your skin to numb the area where they are biting.
However, if the mosquito is carrying a disease then it’s possible they will transmit it to you. Mosquitoes can carry an array of diseases:
- Zika virus
- West Nile virus
- Chikungunya
- Dengue fever
- Malaria
Some, but not all of the diseases they transmit are deadly. That’s why, after being bitten by a mosquito you should monitor yourself. If you feel unwell within 2-5 days of being bitten it’s advisable to speak to your doctor.
Because of this risk, it’s advisable to speak to the professionals regarding the level of mosquitoes at your home and what you can do to eliminate them. You can check over here for more information.
Their Bite
Mosquitoes are very adept at finding a host and then biting into the surface of your skin. In fact, mosquitoes don’t actually bite. They insert a small feeding tube that allows them to access the blood in your body and suck it out. Thanks to the saliva administered at the same time you don’t generally feel the ‘bite’ until afterwards.
Wearing clothing does make it more difficult for a mosquito to bite. But, if the clothing is thin, it is still possible for the feeding tube to go through the fabric and into your body.
In short, they can bite through clothing.
However, they are not able to bite through thick clothing, only thin items. In addition, it is more difficult for a mosquito to successfully bite you, even through thin clothing, when it is loose. Close-fitting clothing is much easier for them to bite through.
The Best Option
Mosquitoes tend to be an issue in warmer climes which usually means thicker clothing is not an option. That’s why it’s best to opt for thin layers and to avoid clothing that fits snugly to your body.
You can also use an effective mosquito deterrent. However, it is less effective when used under clothing as the clothes will rub some of the mixtures off.
Tip After Being Bitten
Your main concern after being bitten by a mosquito is to monitor your health. But, your immediate concern will be the itching. The best way to reduce the itchiness is to add a little aloe vera to the site. If you don’t have this handy then you can rub honey or apple cider vinegar on it.
