Mosquitoes

Download a transcript of this video (in process)

ABOUT THIS EPISODE

Sometimes mosquitos feel like they are everywhere – swirling around your outdoor activities, taking a bite or two (or more!) at exposed skin. They really do like how some of us smell! Besides being annoying, mosquitos can spread diseases among pets and humans. Tim talks with Sarah Short, an Ohio State entomologist, about how you can help prevent this insect from being a pesky pest to your family and your four-legged friends.

GET THE FACTS!
We have many free fact sheets available on Ohioline. Check out these valuable resources to improve how you and mosquitoes can get along in the great outdoors!

• Northern House Mosquito
• How to Control and Prevent Mosquito Bites In and Around Ohio Homes
• People and West Nile Virus: Frequently Asked Questions

LEARN MORE!

Mosquitos seem to be everywhere when you want to enjoy your outdoor activities. A bite almost seems inevitable. But what is the best thing to do when you are bitten? According to How to Treat and Avoid Mosquito Bites, the first step is to not scratch the bite, which is easier said than done. To help with the itch caused by these bites some steps you can take include

• Washing the area with soap and water
• Apply anti-itch cream such as calamine lotion
• Apply an ice pack
• Take an antihistamine

Further, you can take steps to avoid a bite before it happens, so you can spend your time outdoors without worry! To do so you can take precautions such as:

• Staying inside at dawn and dusk
• Wearing long sleeves and long pants
• Using bug spray
• Putting screens in your windows to keep the bugs out of your house
• Get rid of all standing water in your yard

CONNECT WITH OUR EXPERTS!

The Gardiner and Perry labs at The Ohio State University, continuously do research in the department of entomology. Go to their respective pages to learn more about their research and find experts in this field.