- Life, thoughts and adventures from a woman on the other side of 50

Mosquito Bite Protection | Why It’s So Important for People Over 50

Spring is here in Texas. The weather is beautiful now and it’s great to be able to spend time outdoors. Especially before the dog days of summer arrive. But with the beginning of great outdoor weather also comes the beginning of mosquito season. At the very least, mosquitoes are a nuisance. How many times have you been enjoying time outside, only to start getting eaten up by mosquitoes? And they are not just a nuisance! Did you know that those pesky mosquitoes transmit life-threatening diseases such as Zika virus, West Nile virus, Chikungunya virus and dengue fever. So let’s talk about Mosquito Bite Protection | Why It’s So Important for People Over 50.

This post is sponsored by the Texas Department of State Health Services. All opinions are my own.

Mosquito Bites | More Than Just a Nuisance

I’m a native Texan and have had more than my fair share of mosquito bites. And for most of my life, I just regarded them as a pain in the…wherever they bit me. It stings to get bit. The bites itch. It’s only been in recent years that I have become aware of mosquito-borne diseases.

Some people who contract mosquito-borne diseases may only experience mild symptoms. But even though they are not terribly bothered by the symptoms, they can be a carrier for these diseases and transmit them to others. This is especially dangerous for those who may be more susceptible to the life-altering conditions caused by mosquitoes.

Mosquito Borne Diseases | Who Is Most At-Risk?

Pregnant Women and Women Seeking to Become Pregnant

The issue that is of particular concern to these women is the Zika virus which can cause microcephaly, a birth defect that damages brain development and growth in infants, resulting in an abnormally small head.

Travelers

Many of us who are 50+ are enjoying the freedom to travel. But if you are traveling to places known to have mosquito-borne diseases, you must take extra precautions.

Older Adult Population

People with weakened immune systems are at an increased risk for developing symptoms of West Nile virus, and people older than 50 have the highest risk of severe disease.

Mosquito Bite Prevention – Declare W.A.R. on Mosquitoes

Wear long sleeves and pants when you are outside. I can hear it now! There is NO WAY I am wearing long sleeves and pants outside in Texas during the summer!!!!! But consider consider wearing loose fitting clothing or fabrics that breath like linen. Having a few pieces like this in your summer wardrobe will keep you cool and protect you from mosquito bites.

Apply EPA-approved insect repellent

Remove standing water which is a the place mosquitoes love to breed. Walk your property and remove items that may collect water when it rains. After it rains, walk it again to see if any water has collected and dump it out ASAP.