Swarms of mosquitoes set to invade UK this weekend as temperatures soar
SWARMS of mosquitoes are expected to plague the UK this weekend thanks to the soaring temperatures. As parts of the country see highs of 24C, the biting bugs are likely to increase, according to experts. Bite prevention expert Howard Carter warned that it was down to milder weather as well as better temperatures and a […]
SWARMS of mosquitoes are expected to plague the UK this weekend thanks to the soaring temperatures.
As parts of the country see highs of 24C, the biting bugs are likely to increase, according to experts.
Bite prevention expert Howard Carter warned that it was down to milder weather as well as better temperatures and a higher water table.
He explained: “These three things make the perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes.”
“The change in the weather profoundly affects mosquitoes and they’re already out there now. When you next go out they will be zooming in on your scent.”
To avoid being bitten he advises covering up the arms and legs as well as wearing lighter coloured clothing – although to also be aware that they can even bite through thick clothes such as denim jeans.
The change in the weather profoundly affects mosquitoes and they’re already out there now
Howard Carter, Mosquito Expert
“A lot of mosquitoes zero in on the ears, wrists and ankles because this is where the skin is thinner and blood vessels are nearer the surface; which is one of the reasons women generally get bitten more than men,” he explained.
Avoiding strong perfumes and making sure to wear insect repellent is also advised.
Mr Carter continued: “Some perfumes such as lavender combinations actually attract insects.
“Be aware that most toiletries and sunscreens, along with most fabric softeners contain scent.”
More people are likely to be sitting in their gardens, with the current lockdown prohibiting unessential travel.
If you have noticed more mozzies in your garden, you can take measures to try and reduce them.
How to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes - and what to do if you already have
The best way to avoid getting bitten is by using insect repellent.
The incognito insect repellent range provides protection against mosquitoes and other biting insects, anywhere in the world. They are made from 100% natural ingredients and are parabens, SLS & DEET free.
The range includes suncream, hair & bodywash, moisturiser, spray, roll-on and much more.
Perhaps it’s too late and you’ve already been gnawed on. Well, don’t pick it – make sure you treat it with a bite cream.
Anthisan Bite and Sting Cream can provide symptomatic relief of skin irritation caused by insect stings, insect bites and nettle stings.
It contains the active ingredient mepyramine maleate (2 per cent), a topical antihistamine which stops the histamine affecting your body’s cells by blocking histamine receptors on cells, preventing the inflammatory cascade and so reducing swelling and inflammation.
Anthisan Bite and Sting Cream (20g) retails at £3.66 and is available from leading pharmacies and supermarkets.
Dr James Logan, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, advised: “They lay their eggs in water sources – like puddles, water features, bird baths – these are all havens for mosquitoes.
“If people are getting bitten in their garden, they should have a look to see where there might be any possible things to get rid of.
“Blocked guttering on the roof, drains, water baths for birds, water butts, water features, ponds.”
In the UK, the most common mosquito species is the Culex pipiens – but in recent years, there have been more sightings of the Asian tiger mosquito, known for spreading Zika and dengue fever.
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Four years ago, eggs were found for the first time in a small village in Kent.
Since then, experts say there have been more incidences where the pesky bugs have reached our shores.
Dr Logan explained: “The Asian tiger mosquito has been found in the UK over the last couple of years in small numbers.
“We don’t think they’re established here, they’re not breeding here – but this weather means there is a higher chance of them surviving.”