5 Best Remedies for Itchy Mosquito Bites

Almost everyone has encountered a mosquito at some point in their life. Mosquitos are typically hard to avoid, especially in spring and early summer. Plaguing family get-togethers like cookouts and pool parties, mosquitos wait for their opportunity to feed. The worst part of getting bit by mosquitos isn’t getting bit; it’s the relentless itch that coincides with the bite.

An interesting fact about mosquitos, you aren’t likely to be bitten by a male. Mosquitos only feed on people and animals to derive nourishment for their eggs. As females are the carriers of the eggs, they are the only ones that need the protein for egg development. Without blood, the eggs aren’t able to mature, and the female is unable to lay them for hatching.

In this article, we’ll go over why mosquitoes bite the itch. We will also go over some of the best remedies for itchy mosquitoes bites you can do at home. 

Why does mosquito bite itch?

Many wonder how a little insect can create such a massive impact as the mosquito does. Not only do these insects carry diseases, but their bite and the symptoms that follow are usually the chief complaints. To understand why the bite itches, you have to understand what happens in the process of the bite.

Females will seek out humans and animals for a source of protein to develop their eggs. They have a heightened awareness of the carbon dioxide that is exhaled along with lactic acid just under our skin. When the female lands, she will inject a serrated proboscis, to find a capillary. To render the person unaware of what is going on, she will release salvia at the same time to numb the area. The salvia from the mosquito is what will cause you to itch while stopping the clotting process.

Have you ever noticed that the bite site is itchier after you scratch it? The reason you’ll feel the itch more, and why mom always tells you to stop itching is inflammation. Your skin is already reacting to the salvia. The itching will only make the inflammation worse. It will become a vicious cycle. The more you itch, the itchier it will be. So the number one piece of advice, if you’ve been bitten, is to avoid scratching at all costs!

Home remedies for itchy mosquito bites

Now that we understand why the itch of the bites, let’s go over some of the best remedies you can try at home. Many of these can be done with things you probably already have at home, making them the best places to start.

Cold Compresses

You wouldn’t think that an ice pack will make that big of a difference, but it does. The good news for people wanting to alleviate the itch is you can use almost anything cold or frozen. This includes cans of soda, frozen foods, and ice wrapped in a paper towel. Apply the cold compress for five minutes. Remove and assess. If still itchy, reapply.

Calamine Lotion

Most families have a bottle of this soothing pink medicine somewhere in their medicine cabinet or drawer. Calamine lotion is great for soothing the skin; after all, it is used to relieve itching from poisonous plants like poison ivy and sumac. With this trick, use a cotton ball to dap product on. You can cover with a bandaid, but it is better to let the area breathe.

The Hot Spoon Trick

The heat will destroy the protein enzymes causing you to itch. The hot spoon trick is perhaps the most effective at offering instant relief. You can heat a spoon in a cup of warm water, safely over a low-heat burner.

The Homeopathic Route

If you’re looking for something more all-natural and homeopathic, very hot and cold compresses, there are a few methods you can try. The first is using a banana peel. Simply rub the inside of the peel directly onto the skin in a circular motion. The second is to apply mud directly to the bite site. Another option is to use toothpaste. 

Anti-histamines

Benadryl and similar products are great for relieving itch due to an allergic reaction. At the core of a mosquito bite, you have an irritation because of a foreign substance in your body, the saliva of the mosquito. Your body is doing; it’s best to get rid of it. An anti-histamine may take longer to work, but it does a great job of getting rid of the pain. 

Conclusion

No one enjoys being bitten by mosquitos. It is itchy, and if you scratch enough, it can turn painful. Find homeopathic or all-natural relief with remedies right in your home. Choosing a cold compress or heat are the top methods while applying calamine lotion, or taking an antihistamine will also work. 

Better than stopping the itch, preventing mosquito bites is the top solution for avoiding the itchy trap. Professional pest control is the number one way to reduce problematic mosquitos in your yard. Just remember that if you are bitten, don’t scratch. This will heighten the problem, only making it worse.

Are mosquitos a constant problem in your yard? Are you looking for protection against mosquitos? Bug Guys Pest Control is pleased to offer our mosquito control services throughout the Coachella Valley. To schedule a consultation or appointment, or would like to obtain a quote for pest control services, contact us today at (442) 227-8409.

5 Best Remedies for Itchy Mosquito Bites is republished from Bug Guys Services

Can Mosquitoes Transmit HIV?

Mosquitoes have long been known to transmit diseases. Going back as far as yellow fever and dengue, most not only hate the annoying insects for biting but also their potential to give deadly viruses. In times, when the media is on a constant loop talking about the Coronavirus, many begin to wonder about transmission. One of the more well-known viruses that many worries about contracting are HIV. Can mosquitoes transmit HIV?

Human immunodeficiency virus had been in the media since the 80s. While symptoms of the infection have become highly treatable in recent years, it is still something most don’t want. Understanding how HIV is contracted, and importantly how it isn’t contracted is vital. In this article, we will go through some of the basics of HIV and how it relates to mosquitos.

Why CAN mosquitoes NOT transmit HIV?

Mosquitoes can transmit diseases. It’s important to realize that. However, when it comes to HIV, mosquitoes can’t be infected. Therefore they can’t spread. HIV exists in the bloodstream. When a mosquito bite and penetrates the skin, the only saliva is deposited. If a mosquito bites a human that was HIV+, the insect, then goes to bite someone that isn’t positive, blood is never transmitted. 

When a mosquito feeds off a person, the borne diseases can’t replicate in the gut of the mosquito. HIV is unable to break down. The insect lacks the receptors needed to carry the virus. So while you may have to worry about specific types of sicknesses, Human immunodeficiency virus isn’t one of them.

How HIV is transmitted in humans?

While you don’t have to worry about mosquitos infecting you with HIV, you should understand how you could contract it. Though chimps are often blamed for the beginning of Human immunodeficiency virus, this is not how people will contract it today. To get HIV, you must be in contact with someone that is HIV+. There will need to be an exchange of fluids and is most commonly thought to happen during sexual intercourse. 

A person infected with the virus will spread through their infected fluid to another person’s bloodstream. Though evidence suggests that sexual contact is how HIV is mostly transmitted, sharing needles is another method of transmission. Though mothers can pass the virus on to an unborn child, this only occurs in 1% of situations. Types of fluids that can contain the virus includes:

• Blood
• Anal Fluid
• Vaginal Fluid
• Semen
• Breast Milk

 

What are the viruses transmitted by mosquitoes?

Though you don’t have to worry about getting HIV from mosquitoes, there are other viral infections you should be aware of. Below are the common illnesses people have contracted over the years due to infected mosquitoes.

Yellow Fever

The yellow fever got its name for the effects it has on the infected. After being infected, the individual exudes jaundice symptoms in the hands, eyes, and feet. Yellow fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease. It will also present with fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and fatigue.

Dengue Fever

Spread by tropical mosquitos, dengue fever takes up to 14 days to show symptoms. Those that have been infected once before will have a significantly different experience and notice that the illness is much more severe. Dengue fever is rare and only affects 20,000 a year.

Chikungunya

Found worldwide, but mainly in Asia, Chikungunya displays symptoms after about a week of being bitten. Fever and joint pain are the most common, though headache and fatigue are also symptoms you may notice. Chikungunya is extremely rare, affecting only 1,000 people a year. 

Malaria

One of the more common mosquito-transmitted viruses, Malaria is a significant problem in African countries and around the world. There are treatments available for Malaria, as well as protective drugs for those traveling abroad.

West Nile 

Though it sounds frightening, many with West Nile don’t exhibit any symptoms. If you have any effects, it may include headache, fever, fatigue, rash, and swollen glands. West Nile was identified in 1999.

Zika Virus

In the US, the Zika Virus is very rare. There are fewer than 1,000 cases per year. In most cases, there are no symptoms. There’s currently no vaccine and treatments that are available to soothe any adverse effects.

 

Conclusion

Though HIV is extremely treatable these days, it is still something most will want to avoid, if possible. Talking openly with your sexual partners, not sharing needles, and getting treatment for those that are HIV+ are all methods of reducing the chances of transmission.

Mosquitos though have a bad reputation for spreading illnesses, can’t transmit HIV or the Coronavirus. While they might be the most annoying pest in your yard, you don’t have to worry about contracting these types of viruses. 

Are mosquitos a problem in your Coachella Valley yard? Contact Bug Guys Pest Control today! We are proud to offer affordable and effective mosquito control. Give us a call anytime at (442) 227-8409. 

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Do Mosquitos Spread Coronavirus?

During the summer, one of the most discussed problems is mosquitos. However, this year there is a rival, with the Coronavirus. If you’ve been wondering if the virus can be transmitted to pets or animals or if insects and animals can give it to us. Do mosquitoes spread coronavirus? Well, you’re in luck. In this article, we will go over what the Coronavirus is, and whether or not you should worry about mosquitos this season.

What is Coronavirus

The Coronavirus, also known as the Novel Coronavirus, COVID-19, or to some ‘the Rona,’ you can’t go anywhere without hearing about the virus.  It’s been plastered all over the news and social media. Though there have been strains of the Coronavirus for years, the new strain is thought to have originated in Wuhan, China.

 Currently, as of April 22, 2020, there are just under 850K people infected. Worldwide there are more than 2.6 million confirmed cases. The concern surrounding the virus is the impact it has on the respiratory system. Those that are elderly or immune-compromised stand the greatest chance of having severe symptoms from the virus. 

The virus has swept the globe and has been labeled a pandemic. There is concern about whether or not we are over the hump, or if there will be another wave to hit.  The virus is thought to be spread mainly through droplets from those infected. This could be a sneeze, cough, or even exhaling. The main concern is that the droplets will land on surfaces and be picked up by others, such as touching a shopping cart then touching your face.

Can Mosquito Spread Coronavirus?

So COVID-19 is spread through droplets. Mosquitoes prey on people, sucking their blood, but is that enough to spread the virus? From what is currently known about the virus, you can’t contract the Coronavirus from a mosquito that bites an infected person.

Mosquitos have a terrible reputation for passing along deadly viruses. They are responsible for viruses like yellow fever and West Nile virus. Mosquitoes live off the blood of animals, which can contain bacteria and viruses. Getting the nourishment they need can result in picking up infections, however, they are limited to certain strains. While you could get dengue fever from a mosquito, you can’t contract the Coronavirus, Ebola, or HIV.

Keeping Safe and Healthy During the Pandemic

Getting through the pandemic and staying safe doesn’t need to be complicated. Staying at home is one of the best ways to avoid the contraction of COVID19. However, if you must go out for essentials, practice hygiene including washing your hands with soap and water, and follow all guidelines from the CDC and California legislature.

Remember that it gathers less than ten people and if you are sick stay home. To slow the spread, our technicians will safely perform pest control services in PPE. If you have questions about service during the Coronavirus pandemic, don’t hesitate to give us a call. 

Conclusion

Mosquitos are annoying, plain, and simple. Though mosquitos have been linked to spreading things like Zika, there is zero evidence to support the spread of Coronavirus. While we still don’t know everything we’d like about COVID19, one thing is for sure, we don’t have to fear mosquitos this spring/summer. 

Are you having issues with mosquitos in your yard? The great news about mosquitos is that they are completely controllable if you have the help of professional pest control. Bug Guys Pest Control is pleased to offer mosquito control throughout the Coachella Valley area. To schedule services with us for effective mosquito control, call (442) 227-8409. 

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Five Bugs Commonly Found Around a Home’s Foundation

There are two typical foundations for homes to rest on. The first is a pier and beam, and the other is a slab. Regardless of which you have, pests can become a nuisance. For those that are lucky enough to not have any pests inside their home, they might not be so fortunate when it comes to outside their property. 

Outdoor insects, bugs, and spiders can all be waiting outside for a chance to get in. Human homes offer more excellent protection against the elements, as well as a food source. Because your home is so inviting, it's no wonder, you will find several nearby inching their way around the foundation to find a way in.

Carpenter Ants

The most common household pests, by far, are ants. Ants, more specifically carpenter ants, are found along walls and outside the home. These can be seen in groups or just sporadically one here and there. Carpenter ants are found in colonies in the grass, and will only venture into homes searching for food.

Cockroaches

No one likes sharing their home with cockroaches. They are regarded as a pest that is difficult to eliminate and can survive under the most severe circumstances or harsh outdoor elements. While they might seem difficult to kill, professional pest control is the top method for reducing and eliminating sightings of cockroaches around the home. It’s not impossible to get rid of cockroaches, but it may take several weeks to remove them. 

Termites

The most destructive pest would most certainly be termites. They can destroy housing materials like doorways, doors, or wood structures. Termites can eat their weight in wood and cost homeowners thousands. They are found near the foundation as they are looking for a new food source. You might see these with wings or without depending on their life cycle at the time.

Those that have a pier and beam foundation are more susceptible to subterranean termites. Because there is a crawl space under the home, this is the perfect location for the termites to live. The means and any other part of the structure that is accessible is fair game and at risk. Those purchasing a home with a pier and beam foundation should almost always invest in a termite inspection to rule out a possible infestation to the foundation.

Bees

While it might not be the most commonly talked about foundation pest out there, bees are quite a problem. For those that have allergic reactions to their sting, it can be critical to protecting their home from a bee infestation. While you might be worried about the stingers, carpenter bees can burrow and have been known to destroy wood. Wasps are also a common issue surrounding the foundation and something to be aware of.

Rolly Pollies

Most of us are familiar with rolly pollies. They will also bring adults back to the day of being young and playing in the yard. Without a care in the world, we would flip rocks over to find what was lurking underneath. Rolly pollies will forever be that insect that we couldn’t help but poke with a stick and see it roll up, which is how it earned its recognizable name. 

The more technical term for these is pill bugs. While these are certainly not harmful to anyone’s health, they can become rather annoying and can have massive quantities if not dealt with swiftly. The rolly pollie is not only not dangerous to your health, but they do zero damage to your home. Perhaps the greatest threat from having a population around your home is that they will attract predators that prey on them, which include spiders, toads, birds, and frogs.

Ways To Control Pests Around Your Home’s Foundation

So, you’ve noticed an infestation of pests around your home’s perimeter. Rather than allow the infestation to continue, you might be wondering what effective solutions there are for eradication. You could also be wondering if there were ways to prevent it from happening. Let’s review some of the top ways to keep pests away from your foundation.

Keep Foundation Clear of Weeds

Grass and weeds are typical insects and bug magnets. Allowing your yard to overgrow will encourage a pest problem. Keeping the area well maintained with routine trimmings and mowing the grass can help greatly. When managing your property and keeping the grass cut, you might stumble across nests or potential signs of an infestation. If so, you can alert your pest controller to your findings. 

Eliminate Excessive Moisture Correct Plumbing Issues

Bugs love moisture. From rolly pollies to termites, moisture sets the stage for an optimal breeding ground. While there isn’t much you can do about mother nature and how often it rains, you can direct water away from your home with a fully operational gutter system.  

Gutters are not only great for stopping moisture around your foundation, but they can also prevent foundational issues like cracks and your home sliding. When you add these fantastic benefits in moving moisture away to avoid pest infestation, it’s a good idea to give some consideration for a sound gutter system.

Excessive moisture may also occur from a slab leak. Slab leaks can be devastating for any property both for attracting unwanted pests and damaging the foundation. If you hear water running at night or have an increased water bill, consider hiring an expert plumbing contractor for an inspection. 

Seal Cracks in Foundation

Any entry point where a bug or insect could find their way in should be sealed off. Though you don’t necessarily want to mask a foundation issue, filling in cracks or gaps could significantly reduce the potential of an infestation inside the home. Sealing up cracks is a simple DIY project that can be completed in just a few hours, if not less. Not only can you do it yourself, but it is incredibly cost-effective too.

Professional Pest Control for 100% Control

When you want the maximum protection for your property, having professional pest control should be at the top of your to-do list. Professional pest control is the best way to ensure your home, including the foundation, is free from all types of pests. The traditional method of spraying the perimeter will offer the most considerable benefits while applying baits in the yard is a close second for results. 

If you’d like to protect your home and its foundation from pests including ants, bees, cockroaches or even rolly pollies contact Bug Guys Pest Control today at (442) 227-8409.

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Rats vs. Mice: What’s the Difference?

Isn’t telling the difference between mice vs rats pretty easy? Most will argue that it is and others not so much. The biggest tell is usually the size. Rats are generally known for being the bigger of the two rodents, while mice are known for being meek like the ones in Cinderella. Whatever the case may be, it is good to know the difference between the two. In this article, we will go over what exactly sets these two common household rodents apart from one another, and why you, as a homeowner, should care. 

Rats Vs. Mice

So why does it matter if you know the difference between a rat and a mouse? To most people, a rodent is a rodent, and typically they want whatever scurred across the floor to not be in the home. Rats and mice are two very different creatures. Mice are probably more common as a household pest, while rats can be more dangerous in general.

The problem with mice and rat infestation is when a homeowner catches a glimpse of a rodent; it’s just that a glimpse. There isn’t that much time to really study whether or not it is a rat or mouse. You’re lucky to identify a furry creature with a tail running to its hideout. But let’s say we removed that barrier of only catching a quick view, what would their similarities and differences be?

What are Their Similarities

Some similarities between rats and mice include their body shapes. They both are four-legged rodents, and they both have a tail. From here they may have brown fur, depending on the breed, and short ears. For the sake of argument and this article, when we refer to mice, we are talking about the ordinary house mouse. For rats, we are referring to the Norway rat, which is the most common rat. Both rats and mice are nocturnal too. 

What Are Their Differences

Size is the most noticeable difference between rats and mice. The house mouse can grow up to four inches. Compare that to the more massive Norway rat that can grow up to nine inches; you wouldn’t mistake a mouse and a rat based on their size. Now that is based on their adult sizes, when they are babies, it can be more challenging to distinguish the two.

Diet and Eating Habits

Rodents will eat just about anything, including insects and your home’s wiring. This makes rodents not only a danger but also destructive a home. They will chew wires, get into insulation, and even destroy drywall. In the wild, rats and mice will eat seeds, nuts, and berries. 

Where do They Live?

In the wild, rodents will find anywhere that is quiet during the day and dark. Because they sleep during the day, they will often look for a safer place to call home. When they take up residence in your home, it will usually be in the attic, behind the walls, or in the basements.

Droppings

If it were a challenge as to which rodent went poop more, the mice would when. Mice can produce up to 100 droppings a day to the rats 50 maximum. This is probably why most people can tell they have a mouse problem quickly. Because mice are smaller, they can fit in tiny areas like underneath sinks. This is where most people will see mouse droppings. 

Conclusion

Rats and mice can be found in anyone’s home. As nocturnal creatures, most people will find them here at night as they are foraging for food. It is essential to take care of a rodent infestation as soon as possible, as rats and mice can spread disease and cause damage to the home. 

Rats are more prominent than mice and are distinguishable by their hairless tails. Mice have a triangular nose to the rats more blunt snout. If you find rodent droppings in your home, it is probably time to call the pest control for assistance. While ‘mice traps’ could work for one or two, they won’t be that effective against a nest or against rats. Bug Guys Pest Control offers rodent control throughout the Coachella Valley to both residential and commercial customers.

 

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Five Natural Homemade Bee Repellents

Bees aren’t known for being the nicest insects. As a stinging insect, there is always some concern when they are around. However, bees are good for the environment. Honey bees, especially, are the best and most abundant pollinators responsible for pollinating food crops. However, just because they are suitable for the ecosystem, most don’t want bees around them. You might not like bees because they are frightening with the potential to sting, or perhaps you have an allergy. 

Getting rid of bees or keeping them away starts with preventative actions. Repellents are the best method for discouraging bees. Because of the abundance of chemical pesticides, many homeowners are leaning towards finding all-natural remedies. The good news, there are several homemade bee repellent recipes on the internet that work by deterring bees. Some methods can be worn on your person or sprayed around the yard. In this article, we will go over what natural bee repellents are, and a few homemade, all-natural recipes.

 

What Are Considered Natural Bee Repellents?

Staying all-natural is an excellent eco-conscious way to be. Natural products are not only better for you and your family’s health, but it can also promote better practices for protecting the earth. Bees are deterred by smells, much like people are. For example, skunks, trash, sulfur, and rotten eggs are all things we want to stay far away from. Bees are a little more sensitive and are turned-off by flowers and herbs primary. 

Because bees don’t like certain all-natural smells, these things make for excellent repellent. Some of what you’ll see in all-natural repellents include the following.

• Peppermint Oil
• Clove Oil
• Geranium Oil
• Clove Oil
• Rosemary Oil
• Eucalyptus Oil
• Citronella Oil
• Cedarwood Oil

You can’t go over what keeps bees away, without going over the things that bees love to be around and are attracted to. These can include:

• Honeysuckle
• Wisteria
• Sunflowers
• Poppies
• Lilacs
• Lantana
• Snapdragons
• Sedums
• Pale Purple Coneflower

Things that aren’t considered all-natural repellents could include most pesticides found in stores. Chemical pesticides are something you want to avoid using if possible. If an active infestation is present, contact a local pest controller for safe and effective means of getting rid of the bees.

 

Top Five Recipes for Homemade Bee Repellents

So, you’re ready to start making your own homemade bee repellents. Most of these recipes will use some type of essential oil in a spray bottle used around the yard. Making your own is both a practical option as well as a cost-effective one too. However, if you are looking for something more comfortable to keep bees at bay, planting natural bee deterrent plants around the house is an excellent start in addition to professional pest control.

Recipe #1: Witch Hazel & Peppermint

In a small bowl, combine:

• 6 Tbsp of Witch Hazel
• Ten drops of peppermint oil
• 7-10 drops of Tea tree oil 

Transfer to a spray bottle, mixing all ingredients. Add a little water to make it easier to spray and reduce the concentration. This is one of the best recipes to try as it deters not only bees but also other insects too.

Recipe #2: Cinnamon & Spice

Cinnamon is another natural method for repelling bees. Using cinnamon sticks, grind in a food processor or blender. Sprinkle throughout the yard and around the house. You can try cinnamon powder sold at the store for under $2.00 for an even more cost-effective repellent. 

Recipe #3: Plant Peppermint/ Sprinkle Cucumbers

Taking action and planting peppermint in the garden can help a bunch with stopping bees from choosing your property to establish their hive. Another great all-natural solution is sprinkling cucumber peels outside in a garden or flower bed. Cucumbers can also double as composite.

Recipe #4: Citrus Rind & Tap Water

Another excellent method for creating repellent is in spray bottle form. Using lemon, grapefruit or lime citrus, from the peel combined with 4 cups of water, creates an easy to use spray repellent in the yard. You can lightly mist before an outdoor event and throughout to keep bees and other insects at bay. 

Recipe #5: The Essential Oil Blends

For the last recipe, you can blend any essential oil on the list above and create your very own, all-natural remedy. Some of the top blends include:

• Rosemary Oil + Clove Oil
• Clove Oil + Eucalyptus Oil
• Citronella Oil + Eucalyptus Oil
• Cedarwood Oil + Geranium Oil
• Cinnamon + Clove Oil + Cedarwood Oil

For all of these combinations, you will mix the ingredients together with about a cup of water in a spray bottle. You can also apply these on yourself to keep insects away.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you found some great solutions to keeping bees away from you and your home with these all-natural homemade bee repellents. These plants, herbs, and essential oils have been used throughout the ages and still work very well today. However, if you are experiencing more than a few bees, or you or a family member have a bee allergy, you might want something more certain to keep bees away. Bug Guys Pest Control is proud to offer the best bee removal and preventative services throughout the Coachella Valley.

 

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