Jul 6, 2023 | Pest Control
Insect repellent is not only used to prevent bites from insects; it also plays a vital role in public health. Proper repellent protects large populations of people from the diseases spread by mosquitoes and other biting insects. With that in mind, the next question is, what is the best repellent to use? There are several options available worldwide but two of the most common are those containing DEET and picaridin. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each.
DEET
DEET has been used since its development in the 1940s. It was originally developed to protect US soldiers from mosquito-borne diseases while they were serving overseas. It is considered the most popular repellent product on the market and, in fact, is endorsed by the World Health Organization. Because it has been available for such a long period of time, there is a large volume of data on its use, safety, and efficacy.
DEET is a synthetic compound that is effective at repelling mosquitoes and ticks for anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on how high of a concentration is applied. It also has a low rate of adverse effects.
Adverse effects are usually only reported when a high concentration of product is applied. For this reason, it is recommended to use a lower concentration with more frequent applications. The most common adverse reaction is a rash and skin irritation. Some people report an aversion to the smell. Others dislike the greasy residue DEET leaves on the skin.
DEET is known to dissolve some plastics and can cause damage to sunglasses if not cleaned off immediately. It can also damage some synthetic materials like spandex, rayon, and vinyl, which commonly make up clothing worn during the time of year when mosquitoes are active.
Picaridin
Picaridin was developed in the 1980s and was made available in Australia and Europe on 1998 and the US in 2005. The delay in availability was due to the need for ongoing testing regarding safety and efficacy. It is now the best selling repellent in both Europe and Australia. Picaridin is reportedly as effective as DEET.
Picaridin is a synthetic chemical produced to mimic the naturally occurring piperidine. It is also known as icaridin. The EPA has deemed picaridin safe for use on human skin. Proponents of picaridin prefer it over DEET because it is not as greasy, is odorless, and doesn’t damage plastics or synthetic clothing. Some US companies are already producing products containing picaridin, such as Cutter Advanced, Sawyer Premium, and Repel Smart Spray.
Picaridin doesn’t appear to have any negative effects on the environment. It is mildly toxic to some fish in large doses but is nontoxic to birds and land mammals. It may bind to soil but it is broken down by bacteria in the soil before it can leach into groundwater.
DEET vs Picaridin
Both DEET and picaridin are considered safe for human use. Both are proven to be effective at repelling mosquitoes and other biting insects for about the same length of time. The CDC does not recommend the use of either product in infants under 2 months of age. They do recommend the use of either for children older than 2 months of age and for adults. the EPA also considers both products safe for use during pregnancy.
It is important to note that picaridin is shown to be AS effective as DEET but not MORE effective than DEET. When deciding between the two, the decision is based less on efficacy and safety and more on personal preference.
As always, if mosquitoes or other biting insects are causing problems for you in or around your home, contact your local pest control company for a free evaluation.
Jun 29, 2023 | Pest Control
While most people associate summer with warmer weather and more time spent outdoors, it also marks peak season for many Georgia pests. Here are 5 of the most common summer pests in Georgia and how to prevent them.
Mosquitoes
Mosquito season peaks in summer (peak months are June to September) with activity at hits highest. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. These pests transmit serious diseases to both humans and pets. They also breed in standing water found around your home. You can get rid of mosquitoes this summer by:
- Getting rid of any standing water around your home.
- Wearing mosquito repellent when spending time outdoors.
- Avoiding any outdoor activities at dawn and dusk.
Ticks
Ticks are active from late spring to early fall. These summer pests are known to transmit serious disease to humans and pets. They are commonly found wooded areas and areas with tall grass. Avoid ticks this summer by:
- Wearing long sleeves and pants.
- Checking for ticks after any time spent outdoors.
- Routinely checking your pets for ticks.
- Using vet approved tick preventatives on your pets.
Spiders
Spiders are common in summer as they are often driven from their hiding places by the warmer temperatures (e.g. your attic). While spiders are beneficial to have around as they eat other common pests found in your home, they can be a nuisance. Keep spiders at bay this summer by:
- Sealing around pipes and under doors.
- Using a dehumidifier to keep moisture out.
- Decluttering your home.
- Sweeping cobwebs down as soon as they appear.
Ants
Ants emerge in the summer in search of food (particularly sweets and grease) that they take back to their colonies. This is why they are often found in kitchens. You can prevent ants by:
- Getting rid of debris around foundations.
- Keeping your kitchen clean and crumb free, especially counters and appliances.
- Storing food in sealed containers.
- Trimming branches back from the exterior walls and roof of your home.
Stinging Pests
Stinging pests, such as wasps, hornets, bees, and yellow jackets, are prominent in the summer months. These pests will often forage for food during the warmer weather. Avoid stinging pests by:
- Covering food and drinks when outdoors.
- Avoiding sweet or flowery smelling perfumes.
- Repairing holes in decking, siding, and screens to eliminate nesting spots.
- Maintaining routine lawn care.
Don’t let summer pests ruin your time outdoors. Contact your local pest control company today for a free evaluation.
Jun 13, 2023 | Pest Control
Summer is a season that brings with it many joys, such as longer days and warmer weather. Unfortunately, it also brings a variety of pests that can invade your home and make life unpleasant. Let’s discover some common summer pests and share tips for preventing them.
Ants
Ants are one of the most common pests found in homes during the summer months. They are attracted to sweet, sticky substances and can quickly become a nuisance if they find a food source in your home.
How to Prevent Ants:
- Keep your kitchen and dining areas clean and free of crumbs and spills.
- Seal all food containers and take out the garbage regularly.
- Locate their entry point and seal it off.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are another common summer pest that can be a serious health concern. They can carry diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika virus, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them.
How to Prevent Mosquitoes:
- Remove standing water from around your home, as this is where mosquitoes breed.
- Use screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and use insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
Ticks
Ticks are small, blood-sucking pests that can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. They are often found in wooded areas but can also be found in your yard if you have tall grass or brush.
How to Prevent Ticks:
- Continue to mow your lawn and remove any debris or leaf litter where ticks might hide.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and use insect repellent when spending time outdoors in areas where ticks are prevalent.
Bees and Wasps
Bees and wasps are important pollinators, but they can also be a nuisance and a health concern.
How to Prevent Bees and Wasps:
To prevent bees and wasps, keep your trash cans sealed and dispose of food scraps properly. If you have a nest on your property, call a professional to remove it rather than attempting to do it yourself.
Spiders
Spiders are often found in dark, damp places like basements and crawl spaces. They can be beneficial by eating other pests, but some species can be dangerous if they bite.
How to Prevent Spiders:
- Keep your home clean and free of clutter.
- Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation, walls, and doors to keep spiders from entering.
If you have a pest problem that you can’t control on your own, contact your local professional pest control company for a customized summer pest prevention plan!
May 30, 2023 | Mosquito
Summer is here, and so are mosquitoes. These pesky insects are known for their itchy, irritating bites, but have you ever wondered why mosquitoes bite in the first place? Let’s explore the reasons behind mosquito bites and share some tips for preventing and treating them.
Why do mosquitoes bite?
Female mosquitoes are the ones that bite, and they do it to obtain the protein they need to develop their eggs. Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide and other chemicals that humans and animals emit when they breathe and produce heat and moisture. When a mosquito lands on your skin, it uses its proboscis (a long, needle-like mouthpart) to pierce your skin and suck your blood. As it feeds, it injects saliva into your skin, which can cause an allergic reaction and result in itchiness and swelling.
How to treat a mosquito bite:
- Wash the affected area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the bite to reduce swelling and relieve itching. Over-the-counter anti-itch creams and lotions containing ingredients like hydrocortisone, calamine, or menthol can also be helpful but always check with your doctor before utilizing one.
- Avoid scratching the bite, as this can increase the risk of infection and prolong healing time.
Mosquito bite prevention tips:
Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to avoid the discomfort they can cause. Here are some tips for keeping mosquitoes at bay:
- Use insect repellent: Apply an EPA-approved insect repellent to your skin and clothing before going outdoors. Look for products containing DEET.
- Wear protective clothing: Cover as much skin as possible by wearing long sleeves and pants.
- Avoid peak mosquito hours: Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so try to limit outdoor activities during these times.
- Remove standing water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so remove any sources of standing water from your property, such as bird baths, clogged gutters, or flowerpots.
- Use screens: Install screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
If you have concerns about mosquitoes in your area, be sure to consult with your local mosquito control company for a customized mosquito prevention plan!
May 11, 2023 | Mosquito
The humid, tropical weather of South Florida is the perfect climate for mosquitoes to thrive. These pesky pests are known to be a nuisance while we enjoy outdoors and to be a health risk. As summer approaches and the weather continues to get warm, it’s important for every homeowner to understand mosquito activity, the health risks they bring, and prevention tips to keep your family safe.
Why Are Mosquitoes Invading My South Florida Property?
Mosquitoes are searching for standing water and a blood meal for survival. Standing water provides them a place to lay their eggs to allow larvae to develop, and they only need a small amount of water to do so. Likewise, these pests do feed on blood, but only female mosquitoes. Females bite and feed on humans so they can lay fertile eggs. While most mosquito species breed continuously, a female mosquito will typically search for a blood meal every two days to lay another batch of eggs.
What Are the Health Risks Mosquitoes Bring?
Besides the itchy welt, there are many people who have been bitten by mosquitoes and experienced no side effects. However, these pests are known to be the cause of diseases. They will feed off a diseased host, leading to the spread of pathogens that can infect other hosts. In the United States, they are known to spread the West Nile Virus, dengue fever, and Eastern equine encephalitis.
How Can I Prevent Mosquitoes in My Yard?
There are several ways homeowners can deter these nuisance pests away from their yards. Check out our top do-it-yourself preventative measures to place in your yard to prevent mosquitoes from invading:
- Eliminate items that can hold water, including toys, buckets, pet bowls, tarps, old tires, and hollowed logs or stumps.
- Keep your yard well landscaped by mowing your grass often and cutting back your shrubs.
- If you have wood piles in your yard, keep it at least 20 feet away from your home.
- Utilize screens on all windows and doors if you keep them open.
- Clean your gutters of leaves and debris to prevent pooling and standing water.
- Keep your pools, ponds, and bird baths clean every few days.
Implementing these preventative measures will always help to keep mosquitoes away, but sometimes it’s best to call a professional for extra support. These professionals will provide you with a thorough inspection, source reduction techniques, prevention methods, and treatment methods to eliminate both larvae and adult mosquitoes. Contact your local pest control company for a mosquito control quote.
