Anuradha Varanasi
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Written By: Anuradha Varanasi | Published : April 25, 2016 3:53 PM IST
Malaria is a potentially fatal vector-borne disease that is caused by parasites spread by infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that in 2015 itself, approximately 3.2 billion people or nearly half of the world's population, were at risk of malaria. At present, official figures for malaria in India, available at the National Vector Borne Disease ControlProgramme (NVBDCP), revealed that there were 0.7 1.6 million confirmed malaria cases and 400-1,000 deaths caused by malaria annually, says Dr Paritosh Baghel, Internal Medicine, S L Raheja Fortis Hospital, Mumbai.
Key malaria control interventions include prompt and effective treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapies, use of insecticide-treated bed nets and repellents, and indoor residual spraying with insecticide to control the mosquitoes , adds Dr Baghel. However, while there are various options available in the market when it comes to mosquito repellents, not many people are aware about how to use them safely without suffering from the side-effects of using these chemicals in their households. Here are natural ways to get rid of mosquitoes.
Different types of mosquito repellents
Insect repellents are available in various forms and concentrations. Aerosol and pump-spray products are intended for skin applications as well as for treating clothing. Liquid, cream, lotion, spray, and stick products enable direct skin application.
Whenever you use an insect repellent, be sure to carefully read and follow the manufacturer's Directions for use , as printed on the pesticide s product label. No pesticide is 100% safe and care must be exercised in the use of any pesticide. Where appropriate, consider nonchemical ways to deter biting insects screens, netting, long sleeves, and slacks, explains Dr Baghel. You could also invest in these plants that are natural mosquito repellents.
Repellents commonly available contain these active ingredients:
Using Insect Repellents Safely
Dr Baghel says that it is essential to keep these 10 precautions in mind before using any mosquito repellent that is available in the market:
1. Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before you apply a repellent. Some repellents are not suitable for children.
2. In protecting children, read label instructions to be sure the repellent is age-appropriate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mosquito repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of three years. DEET is not recommended on children younger than two months old.The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that repellents used on children contain no more than 10% DEET.For adults, concentrations of up to 30 percent DEET are generally recommended.
3. Apply repellents only to exposed skin and/or clothing as directed on the product label. Do not use under clothing.
4. Never use repellents over cuts, wounds, or irritated skin.
5. Do not apply to eyes and mouth, and apply sparingly around ears. When using sprays, do not spray directly onto face; spray on hands first and then apply to face.
6. Do not allow children to handle the products, and do not apply to children s hands When using on children, apply to your own hands and then put it on the child.
7. Do not spray in enclosed areas. Avoid breathing a repellent spray, and do not use it near food.
8. Use just enough repellent to cover exposed skin and/or clothing. Heavy application and saturation is generally unnecessary for effectiveness; if biting insects do not respond to a thin film of repellent, then apply a bit more.
9. After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water or bathe. This is particularly important when repellents are used repeatedly in a day or on consecutive days. Also, wash treated clothing before wearing it again.
10. Store pesticides away from children s reach, in a locked utility cabinet.
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