HOW TO PROTECT YOUR CHILD FROM BUGS & MOZZIES
No-one likes mosquitoes, but are they a good enough reason to stop your child benefiting from outdoor play?
Unfortunately, there’s no quick fix for dealing with mosquitoes (dang it!). They are part of our environment but with the right preparation they shouldn’t stand in the way of you or your child enjoying the benefits of outdoor play.
Although we humans may dream of a summer evening without mozzies biting at our exposed flesh, mosquitoes form an important source of biomass in the food chain. Many species of fish, birds and microbats rely on them as a food source and would likely suffer if mosquitoes were no longer present in the ecosystem.
That being said, it doesn’t mean you have to pull up your sleeves and offer yourself up for the sake of nature!
Follow these tips to keep you and your wildlings protected from mosquitoes, so you can focus on the joys of the great outdoors.
1. Cover up!
Wear light-coloured clothing and stay cool – mosquitoes are drawn to dark colours and heat. Dress to protect with long sleeves and pants reaching to wrists and ankles.
Try to cover as much skin as possible and whatever you can’t cover with clothing, spray generously with insect repellant.
2. Get your guard on
Second to barrier protection is the use of an effective insect repellant. There are so many options when it comes to mozzie spray, but there are a few things to consider. In tropical, high-risk areas where mosquito populations thrive, an insect repellent with up to 10 per cent DEET will prevent mosquito bites and is safe for use on children.
Alternatively, there are many repellants that rely on essential oils such as citronella, sandalwood or melaleuca. These are also effective but may have to be applied more often. Whichever you choose, apply the repellent generously and regularly.
Our absolute favourite is Auraveda Organic Insect Repellent because it smells amazing and also keeps the bugs at bay while the wildlings play!
3. Know what makes a ‘high-risk’ area
Mosquitoes love stagnant water and are most active at dawn and dusk. Wetlands, waterholes, tidal creeks and mangroves are all mosquito havens, so it’s best to visit these places during the day.