Did you know that there are about 70 different species of mosquitoes found in New York? These mosquitoes can cause severe symptoms in individuals allergic to mosquito bites. These symptoms include:
- A large area of itching
- Lesions
- Bruises near the site of the bite
- Inflammation of the lymph system
- Hives
- Anaphylaxis
Mosquito season is expected to last through October. During this time, you should take cautionary measures to avoid mosquito bites. While anaphylaxis is rare, it is a severe symptom that can be fatal. The allergists at NY Allergy & Sinus Centers are here to help you get through mosquito season without allergic reactions.
Use the Best Mosquito Repellent
Whenever you plan to be outdoors, be sure to use a high-quality mosquito repellent. It should be an EPA registered repellent with DEET, an effective ingredient to protect against mosquitoes and other insects. We recommend choosing a product with at least a 20% concentration of DEET. The higher the percentage of DEET in a repellent, the longer it will be effective before you have to reapply. This means you can spend more time outdoors without worrying about reapplying more repellent.
For individuals searching for a chemical-free or natural repellent, you can use lemon eucalyptus oil. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have approved eucalyptus oil as an effective ingredient in mosquito repellent. A recent study on repellent formulation showed that a lemon eucalyptus oil mixture is effective in providing protection against mosquitoes for three hours.
Skip the Fragrances During Mosquito Season
We know that you love those fruity and floral fragrances but during mosquito season, it’s best to skip the fragrances. Mosquitoes are attracted to fragrances and other sweet smells. You should avoid colognes, perfumes, and scented body lotions on days you plan to be outdoors. You may even need to forego scented deodorants as well. Try a natural or low-scent deodorant instead.
Eliminate Standing Water in Your Yard
Mosquitoes look to lay their eggs in slow-moving or standing water. Mosquitoes can breed in just a few inches of standing water. So, remove standing water from gutters, buckets, toys, and other containers around your home. Also, be sure to change water weekly in birdbaths, fountains, potted plants, and any containers that hold standing water. If you have a pool, keep the water treated and circulating.
When camping, don’t set up camp too close to lakes or rivers if possible. If it isn’t possible to avoid water, choose a water-resistant repellent and reapply it often. The label on your repellent should tell you how long the ingredients are active for and when it is best to reapply.
Know Your Allergy Action Plan
If you have a mosquito allergy, it’s important to know what your allergy action plan entails during mosquito season. For mild to moderate reactions, you may need prescription-strength steroids. More severe reactions may need epinephrine. Always carry your epinephrine auto-injector while outdoors and seek medical attention immediately after injecting epinephrine.
Consult with one of our NYC allergists to determine the best medication for your allergy. We offer personalized treatment plans to deliver allergy relief when you really need it. Call (212) 686-6321 or book an appointment online to begin treatment for your mosquito allergy.