By Nanette Wiser
Warmer weather approaches and summer is prime time for insects here in Florida. Bugs, including mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and flies, can spread diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and Lyme. While some cases are mild, these diseases can be severe and have lasting consequences. The Anopheles mosquito is far and away the deadliest of dangerous insects. The parasite injected from the bite of this tiny creature causes more deaths and illnesses than the bite or sting of any other insect.
The fire ant is also a pesky, painful critter and may cause an extreme allergic reaction that requires a doctor. If bit, wash the affected skin with soap and cold water. Taking an oral antihistamine (an allergy medication, such as Benadryl®) may help the itchiness as well as applying hydrocortisone cream on the affected skin as needed.
To reduce mosquito bites, don’t go outdoors at dawn or dusk. If you are bit, wash the area with soap and water, apply an ice pack for 10 minutes to reduce swelling and itching and use an over-the-counter anti-itch or antihistamine cream.
Ticks can be found throughout the year in Florida, and both nymphs and adults can transmit any diseases they carry. Quick removal of ticks and prevention of tick bites are both important. To remove a tick, grasp it on its mouthparts with tweezers and pull it straight out with firm pressure. Avoid walking in brush or touching plants; remember your pet can pick up a tick on a hike too. The Gulf Coast tick disease symptoms include soreness, fever, fatigues, headaches, muscle pain, and general rash.
Spring is a good time to begin bug prevention and mosquito-proof your patio and outdoor area. Eliminate water-logged bromeliads, water-filled containers, and other places where mosquitos can breed. Repair screens and consider using no-see ‘em mesh. Be sure gutters are unclogged and roof low spots addressed. Put a lid on your rain barrel when it’s not pouring.
Citronella, lemongrass, sweet orange, lemon eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, and cinnamon are just a few of the oils known to repel biting bugs. Bug zappers seem clever, but they kill helpful insects as well. An oscillating fan on your patio seems to reduce mosquito bites. Consider growing pest-repelling plants, an eco-friendly way to get rid of bugs. Some of the best plants to grow are lavender, marigolds, sage, rosemary, tulsi, garlic,and peppermint.