Q. Where can I get a mosquito repellant that contains DEET or Picaridin?
A. Most drugstores carry a bug spray that contains DEET. Cutter Advanced Sport® bug spray with Picaridin, usually sold at local sporting-goods stores, is another good option. Both repellants work best at concentrations of 15% or higher. Reapply as directed.
Q. I'm afraid that I won't be able to distinguish harmless house spider bite from a brown recluse bite. Are there certain reactions I should look for on my skin that will help me differentiate?
A. A brown recluse bite produces reactions that may include restlessness, itching, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting or shock. A small white blister may rise, surrounded by a red, swollen, hard area. The site can develop or erupt into a "volcano lesion," resulting in a painful, deep wound that may take several months to heal and leave a scar. Fatalities are rare, but bites are most dangerous to young children, the elderly and those in poor physical condition. If you think you have a brown recluse bite seek medical attention quickly.
When venturing outside, protect yourself and your loved ones from nature's most notorious biters.
MOSQUITOS
- Not only are they irritating, but they also can transmit deadly diseases, West Nile Virus being of particular concern.
- Most species become active as the sun begins to set, avoiding the heat of the day. They breed in stagnant water and areas such as cool, grassy areas.
- To help prevent insect bites, apply a waterproof repellant containing the active ingredient DEET or Picaridin. Apply on skin and clothing prior to outdoor activities.
- To best treat mosquito bites, apply an over-the-counter oral or topical antihistamine or hydrocortisone.
TICKS
- Ticks are also carriers of disease, most commonly Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
- Ticks thrive in wooded areas, but they can also be found in gardens, at campsites and along hiking trails.
- Tick bites are often prevented by using a repellant product with at least 20% DEET, wearing long sleeves, pants and socks and wearing light-colored clothing to better identify ticks on clothing.
- Ticks often make their way to warm, moist areas of the body. When checking for ticks, remember to check the most common areas: under arms, in and around ears, in belly buttons, at the back of knees, in and around hair, and around the waist and groin areas.
- Use fine-tipped tweezers to firmly grasp the tick closest to the skin and pull the tick away from the skin. Clean the skin with alcohol or warm, soapy water.
Brown Recluse Spiders
- Brown recluse spiders have a nasty reputation for good reason. Fatalities are rare, but it is important to watch for characteristic reactions. A red, swollen, hard area around the bite is common, but also watch that the bite doesn't turn into an infected lesion.
- As the name implies, brown recluse spiders are not aggressive and only bite when disturbed. They live in dark, undisturbed locations. The best defense against a bite is to be aware when cleaning areas that they frequent, such as attics, closets and cardboard boxes.
- First aid for a brown recluse spider bite includes applying ice and seeking immediate medical attention.
When you adequately protect yourself and your loved ones, you can better enjoy your time outside together. Rediscover the outdoors this season, confident in your preparation.