Mosquito bites: how to prevent and treat them effectively?

Learn how to avoid unpleasant bites this summer.

Why do mosquitoes bite?

Mosquitoes need the protein found in human blood, as it is essential for nourishing their developing eggs. It is therefore known that only female mosquitoes bite.

To locate their victim, these insects use a number of different senses, including the carbon dioxide we exhale, body heat emitted and body odour.

These factors make some people more susceptible to mosquito attacks than others.

Why do mosquito bites itch?

When a mosquito bites, it pierces the skin with its mouthparts to collect blood.

During this process, it injects saliva that contains an anticoagulant and proteins.

The anticoagulant prevents the blood from clotting around the mosquito’s mouthparts, preventing blockages.

The proteins released activate the immune system, which releases histamine. Histamine increases blood flow and allows white blood cells to access the affected area, causing inflammation and swelling.

In addition, histamine sends signals to the nerves around the bite, causing itching.

While some people can recognise this itch, others don’t even realise they’ve been bitten, as some individuals have no allergic reaction to the bites.

Individuals who are constantly exposed to the same types of mosquitoes may develop a certain resistance to the protein, leading to reduced immune system responses and less itching, but people travelling to places with different mosquito species are likely to experience reactions from the immune system.

Does scratching make mosquito bites more itchy?

Scratching after a mosquito bite is likely to make the itching sensation worse and increase inflammation. It’s also important to note that scratching a bite area can also increase the risk of infection if the skin is damaged.

Preventing mosquito bites

To keep yourself free from bites and itching, make sure you eliminate all areas of stagnant water around your building, such as in plates and flower pots, keep waste bins properly closed, remove accumulated water on pavements, clean gutters regularly, as these places are the favourite breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

The females lay their eggs inside objects that can hold up to 2.5 cm of water, which means that something as small as a bottle cap can hold enough water for the larvae to develop!

Homeowners should also properly seal all windows and doors, repairing even the smallest hole. In addition to the above, many mosquito species are more active at dusk and dawn, so keep doors and windows closed during these times.

When outdoors, in places with a high probability of mosquitoes, choose to wear trousers and long sleeves, and make sure you apply an insect repellent that contains ingredients authorised by the General Directorate of Health.

Although it may seem simple, there is a right way to apply insect repellent, just make sure:

– Read the instructions carefully before applying and follow them carefully;

– Apply evenly to exposed skin and clothing;

– Keep feet and ankles covered;

– Repeat application when necessary and according to the label.

We recommend using the following non-dermal repellents in your workplace or home:

Repelin Gel (repellent) is based on a combination of 5 active natural essences with repellent properties for flying insects (flies and mosquitoes).

The repellent marketed by Extermínio does not contain active substances from insecticides, so the absence of insecticides will allow you to create a fragrant, pleasant, healthy and harmless environment.

More information on the use of our Repelin Gel (repellent):

– Highly effective both outdoors and indoors;

– Due to its formula, the natural essences in the product diffuse by controlled evaporation in a uniform and constant way, lasting 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the ambient temperature and the graduation of the opening used in the bottle cap;

– It should be placed at ground level and near the hottest and most humid areas, such as computer towers;

– The opening of the container should be adjusted according to the area of the room, and there should always be an entry and exit point for mosquitoes, i.e. an open window, to repel mosquitoes.

How can Exterminio – Hygiene and Control help you?

We are specialists in the control of Aedes aegypti, so we develop control programmes for this species in accordance with the latest methodologies on the market.

Our assessment of the impact of this insect comprises an integrated analysis in which the application of chemicals is always the last resort. We help you implement measures to control and prevent this pest in your home and other buildings, so our action involves developing preventive actions and, whenever necessary, we use appropriate methodologies for the integrated control of this pest, with minimal impact in terms of public health and the environment.

Contact us to find out more about our products and preventive treatments.

In favour of public health since 1990!