Ways to protect your baby against mosquitoes


Ways to protect your baby against mosquitoes



Mosquitoes can bring with them all sorts of illnesses. Dengue, chikungunya and malaria are among the more common mosquito related illnesses in India. But they are preventable. You can protect your family by doing the following:

1. Keep your home and surroundings clean

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. It's best to keep water drums and buckets covered at all times. Try not to leave water in coolers, plant pots, flower vases and pet dishes for too long. It takes seven to 10 days for mosquito eggs to hatch. So, change water in containers often. Add a few drops of kerosene oil to open drains, small ponds and other places where stagnant water remains. The oil forms a thin film over the water. This stops mosquitoes from breeding.

Clean all water containers once a week. Make sure to scrub the sides well to remove mosquito eggs sticking to the sides.

Remove dry leaves around your home. They can collect rainwater. As can old tyres. If you use them to weigh down objects, puncture or slash them. Dispose of all old tin cans, jars, bottles and other items that can hold water.
2. Dress to protect

Dark colours tend to attract insects. It is best to dress your baby in light coloured clothing. Dress your baby in full-length garments. Pants are better than capris, shorts, dresses and skirts. Choose lightweight knits and cotton garments that allow the passage of air while covering the body.
3. Avoid strong fragrances

Do not use lotions, soap, oils or floral scented perfumes. These may attract insects.
4. Clean up after eating and cooking

Never leave uncovered food anywhere in your home, especially in your baby's room.
5. Use wire mesh and screens on doors and windows

To keep mosquitoes out of your house, install wire mesh and screens on doors and windows. These are usually available from hardware stores and home maintenance stores. Or speak to your local carpenter.

Nylon insect screens are another good option. These screens are attached to the windows with Velcro, and can be washed regularly. They are available at soft furnishing stores or online. Check for holes regularly. Also, see if there are gaps in between the frames and walls.

Insects may make a permanent dwelling in tiny cracks. Clear these areas. Then put wire mesh or screens on all windows and doors.

These measures will prevent bugs and insects from entering your home. And will let you enjoy the benefits of fresh air, day in and out.
6. Bring out the nets

There are mosquito nets for cribs. They are available from all soft furnishing stores. Some baby shops also stock them and they can be bought online. Some stores may even let you customise them. Mosquito nets are safe until your baby starts moving around.

If you co-sleep , you can use a big net over your bed. Make sure to keep nets securely attached. Check no mosquitoes are caught under the net.
7. Use an insect repellent

Depending on your preference or need, choose among a variety of mosquito repellents. Your local chemists will stock ointments and sprays you can use. All general stores will have ointments and sprays as well as coils, electric vapourisers and mosquito mats to repel mosquitoes.



How to Protect a Baby From Mosquitos


Mosquitos -- irritating with their buzzing and bites -- can also cause serious diseases, such as West Nile virus. If mosquitoes threaten your baby, it’s prudent to protect him from bites to keep him healthy and comfortable. With protective measures in place, you don't have to hibernate indoors to stay mosquito free.
Things You'll Need
Protective clothing
Lightweight blanket
Mosquito netting
Mosquito repellent with less than 10 percent DEET

Instructions
1 Dress your baby in protective clothing that covers his arms, legs, feet and head. Choose loose clothing over tight to keep mosquitos from biting through the fabric. Covered skin is less vulnerable to bites.

2 Cover your baby with a lightweight blanket to serve as another barrier against mosquitos.

3 Sit your baby in a stroller or car seat and place mosquito netting over her to keep bugs away. Netting with an elasticized edge will conform to the stroller or car seat to seal out mosquitos, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

4 Spray mosquito repellent onto your hand and apply it lightly over your baby’s clothing to add another layer of protection as long as your baby is over 2 months of age, according to the CDC. If your child is younger than 2 months, use protective clothing and mosquito netting only. Avoid spraying mosquito repellent on the skin of a baby under age 1, advises the Victorian Government, Melbourne. Do not spray the repellent directly onto your child as he might inhale the chemicals.

5 Remove your baby’s clothing when you go back indoors if it has been sprayed with mosquito repellent. This will reduce your baby's exposure to chemicals.


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