Grace Cottage Hospital’s Summer Safety Tips

How To Avoid Being Some Mosquito’s Dinner
From Messenger Valley Pharmacy

• When people say “mosquitos like me,” they’re probably speaking the truth, because mosquitos do prefer to bite some more than others. Adults are more likely to be bitten than children, although adults lose their attraction to mosquitos as they age (at least there’s one benefit!). Men are more likely to be bitten than women (Ha!) and larger people are more likely to be bitten than smaller ones, all due to body chemistry.
• The most effective insect repellent for mosquitos, flies, fleas and ticks is DEET (a short name for a long chemical compound - you don’t want to know). 10% to 30% DEET will provide enough protection under most circumstances, and don’t use products containing more than 10% DEET on children. In very rare cases, DEET can cause central nervous system effects, allergic reactions, and short-term heart problems. Soybean oil and citronella oil are alternatives, but they don’t work as well.
• To avoid mosquitos entirely, move to Antarctica!
• Only female mosquitos bite - they need the blood to feed their eggs.
• Mosquitos find you by detecting the carbon dioxide in your breath from more than 100 feet away.

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