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Avoiding
Mosquito Bites
Use an EPA-registered insect repellent such as those with DEET,
picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
When weather permits, wear long-sleeves, trousers and socks when
outdoors. Mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, so spraying clothes
with repellent containing permethrin or another EPA-registered repellent
will give extra protection. Mosquitoes are most likely to bite in the
early morning and evening.
Soothing Mosquito bites
Crotamiton
ointment (which you can buy at pharmacies) is soothing when rubbed onto
itchy skin.
A steroid cream may be useful to reduce any inflammation. For example,
hydrocortisone which you can buy at pharmacies or get on prescription. A
doctor may prescribe a stronger steroid cream in some cases.
Antihistamines tablets may be useful if you have lots of bites. You can
buy these at pharmacies, or get them on prescription. Antihistamines
block the action of histamine. This is a chemical which is released in
sites of skin reactions and contributes to the itch and inflammation.
As a general rule,
try to ignore mosquito bites (easier said than done!) - in this part of
Spain the risk of serious illness is generally low. Scratching bites may
cause infections and although providing temporary relief it will prolong
the annoyance of the bite.
It is advisable to visit a doctor or the local hospital if you are
bitten to an excessively
How Property owners can reduce
the problem of Mosquitoes:
The Servei de Control de
Mosquits de la Badia de Roses i del Baix Ter at the Ajuntament de Roses
in Casttello de Empuries (SCM) is responsible for the control of
Mosquito infestations in the area. Phone (972) 75 96 43.
Although the Roses area does not generally have a great Mosquito
problem, the following simple steps will reduce the Mosquito population
further:
| Septic
Tanks: |
Ensure that all
cover are tightly shut and if possible covered with earth. |
| Air
Chambers, Cellars & 'Caves' |
Ensure these rooms
remain dry and install mosquito nets over entrances. |
| Canals
& Gutters |
Ensure all
rainwater canals & gutters on your property are clear so that
stagnant water cannot accumulate. For canals and gutters situated on
public property, contact the SCM (or you could be public-spirited
and keep them clear yourself!). |
| Ornamental
Ponds & Watering Tanks etc |
Stock with
Goldfish or ''gambussies'' (small fish) as they feed on the lava.
The SCM will provide these free of charge. |
| Wells |
Cover with
hermetically sealed lids or a mosquito net. |
| Boats
etc |
Empty rainwater
regularly. |
| Patio
Syphon |
Keep a film of
paraffin on the surface. |
| Swimming
Pools |
Completely cover
them until required. |
By following these
routines, you and your guests will derive greater pleasure from a stay
in your property.
The
Companies & Products listed to below may be of assistance:
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Webstites that may be of interest:
Ajuntament de Roses: roses-costa-brava.com
Mosquito Repellants from Boots Online: Boots.com
Seven day weather forecast for the Girona region:
Wunderground.com
The University of East London (Mosquito ditstribution facts): uel.ac.uk |
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