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With bug season upon us, it?s a good time to review the best ways to avoid bites without using chemicals (as well as the guidelines for safer use of insect repellent, when it?s needed). In order to debunk myths about mosquitoes and get the facts straight, I asked mosquito expert Cameron Webb, a medical entomologist of the University of Sydney, in Australia, to share tips for avoiding these pests this summer.
How can my family avoid mosquito bites this summer"
The Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) recommends the following to minimize those itchy bites:
Don?t let them breed

Mosquitoes breed in standing water. One of the most effective ways to decrease mosquitoes is to get rid of standing water by emptying kiddie pools, planters and toys that collect water. Avoid hot spots

Avoid areas with large populations of mosquitoes, and avoid being out at times when mosquitoes are most active?like dusk and dawn. Keep your window screens in good repair and doors closed to keep mosquitoes out. Mosquitoes like to hide in tall grass, so avoid those areas and keep your grass well cut. Strong house fans used outside on a patio or deck can also help to keep the little buggers away. Webb explains that the reason for this is twofold: First, mosquitoes don?t like to fly in a breeze; second, fans help to blow away the CO2 we exhale, making us less detectable to mosquitoes.
Create a barrier

Dress your child in light-coloured, loose, long-sleeved shirts tucked into long pan...