The bug season is
upon us-particularly black flies if you live in the Northeast. In addition, because
of the heavy snow this past winter, tick season is going to be worse than
usual. While no one enjoys the itch of a mosquito bite, some of these bugs
carry diseases-Lyme Disease and West Nile Virus- that could seriously jeopardize someone with a chronic
condition. Even if you don’t want to wear a bug repellent, there are things you
can do to reduce your risk of being bitten.
What Works
In May, Consumer Reports came out with a study that tested insect repellents. Interestingly, those made
with milder, plantlike chemicals were found to not only be the most effective,
they out performed products containing Deet, which was developed by the
military and became available to the consumer in 1957.
Picaridin (20% concentration) is the main ingredient in Consumer Report’s
top pick Sawyer Fisherman’s formula. This is the synthetic version of piperine, the chemical
that gives black pepper its kick. Unlike
DEET, picaridin is odorless, non-greasy, and does not dissolve plastics or
other synthetics.
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (30% concentration) also works well and is found in
various products. There is now a synthetic version called PMD.
Non-Chemical
Approaches that Work
• Staying inside from dusk to dawn
• Using a fan on patios to blow away the bugs. The closer you sit next
to the fan, the more effective.
• Screens-keep the bugs outside
• Clothing: Wear long sleeve shirts, hats, socks, and tuck pant legs
inside of boots, . Permethrin treated clothing and bed netting is also an
option. Although highly toxic to insects, permethrin is not hazardous to
mammals
• Bed nets
• Remove standing water
sources. Change birdbaths, wading pools and pet's water bowl twice a week. Keep
eaves troughs clean and well draining. Remove yard items that collect water.
• Keep your lawn mowed, remove leaves, and let in
as much sun as you can. Consider fencing, to keep out deer and other animals
that carry ticks.
Doesn’t Work
• Citronella candles
• Wristbands
• “All-natural” products with geraniol, lemongrass, and rosemary oils
• Bug Zappers
• Skin So Soft
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