Lithuanian pharmacist advises on preventing mosquito bites

With Lithuania experiencing a proliferation of mosquito species, pharmacist J. Aganauskaitė-Žukaitė has offered guidance on how to minimize the nuisance of bites. She noted that while various species exist, their breeding is primarily fueled by moisture, stagnant water, and warmth. Cool, windy, or dry conditions can significantly reduce mosquito activity.

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If mosquitoes are aggressively attacking, I recommend using several different methods to repel them, as one method will likely not be enough.

Aganauskaitė-Žukaitė clarified that only female mosquitoes bite, as they require blood proteins for reproduction. These insects can detect humans from dozens of meters away, guided by body heat, scent, and exhaled carbon dioxide. Certain skin bacteria and chemical compounds can make some individuals more attractive targets. The pharmacist explained that mosquito saliva, injected during a bite, causes localized swelling, redness, and itching. While some people experience mild reactions, others with allergies to proteins in the saliva may suffer intense itching, pain, swelling, and bruising, significantly disrupting daily life.

To reduce the likelihood of bites, Aganauskaitė-Žukaitė suggests a multi-pronged approach. She recommends wearing light-colored clothing made of dense, thicker fabric that covers most of the body. Avoiding outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, peak mosquito hours, especially near water bodies, is also advised. Protecting living spaces with window screens and using area repellents, such as ultrasonic devices or special incense and candles, can help.

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The most effective repellents are marked with DEET. This substance affects the main tool mosquitoes use to find their prey – their sense of smell.

For personal protection, applying repellents to the skin according to manufacturer instructions is crucial. Repellents containing DEET are considered highly effective as they interfere with mosquitoes' sense of smell. Similar effects can be achieved with natural essential oils like mint, lemongrass, cedar, and eucalyptus. Aganauskaitė-Žukaitė stressed the importance of caution when using repellents on children, noting that some products are unsuitable for those under two years old, and specialized, non-irritating formulations are recommended for older children.

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It is important to be extremely careful when trying to protect children from mosquitoes – some of these products are strictly forbidden for children under 2 years of age, and older children are better off using repellents specifically designed for them, which will not irritate their respiratory tract and sensitive skin.