Taking the bugs out of summer
By Katherine Jett, MD
Spring is here, and Memorial Day weekend is right around the corner. Our family loves the warmer weather and the chance to camp, go to the lake and spend time outdoors.
As much as I love spending time outdoors, I have to remind myself to take precautions so pesky mosquitoes and other summer pests don’t ruin the weekend. The mosquito population is sure to be especially plentiful and buzzing this year with all of the recent flooding and remaining pools of water.
I am often asked about ways to prevent mosquito bites, and with all repellents it is important to read the label to find the active ingredients and their concentrations.
Insect repellents containing DEET are considered the best defense against biting insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, chiggers, and biting flies. DEET does not ward off stinging insects such as bees, hornets, and wasps, and DEET concentrations of less than 30 percent are safe for most individuals. The higher the concentration of DEET, the longer your protection will last.
DEET concentrations of 10 percent will provide about two hours of protection, while a concentration of 30 percent will last about five hours.
Products containing DEET should be used sparingly on young children, and DEET should not be used at all on infants under two months of age.
Picaridin (the active ingredient in Cutter) and oil of lemon eucalyptus are other options you can use to repel insects. Picaridin is a more pleasant smelling agent and is safe in concentrations of five to 10 percent. Oil of lemon eucalyptus does not last as long as DEET or picaridin but does last the longest of the plant-based repellents.
Other botanicals may last only a very short time or not at all. If you use a repellant containing permethrin make sure it is only applied to clothing or outdoor equipment and not directly to the skin.
There are several types of repellents that are known to be ineffective including taking garlic or vitamin B1 supplements by mouth.
While bug zappers may be a summer staple, they actually attract insects with their light so placing them away from the action is your best bet. Products that combine sunscreen and insect repellant are marketed as a convenient option, but these are not a good idea as proper use of sunscreen requires more frequent application than DEET and could lead to overexposure to the insect repellant. DEET may also make the SPF in the sunscreen less effective.
Other tips for avoiding bug bites include avoiding areas with high concentrations of bugs such as stagnant pools of water, garbage cans, car tires, or flowers. When possible wear long pants and lightweight long sleeved clothing. Brightly colored clothing and flowery patterns may also attract insects, and avoid scented soaps, lotions, and similar products.
Once you have been bitten, what is the best way to sooth the itch? Begin by taking an oral antihistamine like Claritin®, Zyrtec® or Benadryl® (the generics are just fine). Avoid topical Benadryl as it can lead to sensitization and even bigger reactions. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone can also help relieve the inflammation and itching. If it is not strong enough you may need to contact your doctor for a stronger cream.
Applying ice or a cool washcloth can also help with the discomfort, and make sure to apply bug repellant if you are going back outdoors. Most of all, make sure to take time to relax with a big glass of iced tea, and enjoy your summer!