Living with mosquitoes

Since mid November of this year the mosquito infestation around my home seems to be the worst in the five years I have been here. Nearby waterlogged plots and rice fields are ideal for their breeding .

They are not just a nuisance, but they also spread diseases such as malaria, encephalitis, dengue fever, and filariasis.

Use of insect repellent serves some temporary relief, however, requires frequent reapplication especially in humid, sweaty climates.

Best personal protection is to keep your skin covered: No short pants or short sleeved shirts.

Indoors spraying may be practical in some circumstances. Precautions such as ventilation and protecting food must be considered.

A fan is one of the better protections against mosquitoes, since they are unable to control their flight in windy conditions.


Electric zappers may attract a great number of flying insects which are attracted to light, but do nothing in defense against the mosquito.

The bug is attracted to the human breath, sweat, moisture, and especially foot perspiration. Of course also dark areas, I shake my motorcycle helmet before wearing it.


Further reading How Attractive Are You? To Mosquitoes, That Is (USDA)