Those Pesty Mosquitoes

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I hate those little flying critters that like to suck our blood. Did you know that there are over 3,500 species of mosquitoes and the estimated number of the little flying vampires in the world is in the quadrillions( that's 15 zeros). It is said that about 500 million cases of mosquito-borne diseases occur each year and cause at least 2.7 million death annually. Even though 90% of mosquito-borne illnesses occur in Africa I still don't care for them. It is smart to note that there are several repellents we can rely on. Here are a few: * Though DEET can make your sunscreen less effective you will need a compound that is at least 30% DEET. * 2-undecanone-- This chemical comes from tomatoes. It is also called BioUD. Some studies show it works as well as those with 30% DEET. * Bats -- If you have bats in your belfry or in the neighborhood don't be in a hurry to get rid of them. They have mosquitoes for dinner. * Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus -- Or OLE is EPA-approved and effective in warding off mosquitoes. Not the oil alone which is not tested for safety and the EPA doesn't recognize it. * Though Cittronella is a favorite of mine I am finding that it is said not to really help. I love the smell of it and will continue to use it. Also, essential oils, garlic, and vitamin B, ultrasonic devices do not help. The best thing to do if out wandering through the forest and hiking up the side of a mountain is to completely cover up. That is the best way to element bites. So wear long pants, put your shirttail into your pants and wear a hat.