Fact – mosquitoes suck. They seem to be everywhere in summer and they attack some of us more than others. So whether you’ve been bitten or want to try your luck at new avoidance strategies, here are some tips for managing bites and avoiding new ones.

AVOID

Still water
Still water in pools, bird fountains and ponds provide the perfect environment for mosquitoes – they will be mosquito central.

Beer
A study in Japan found that for about 24 hours or so after drinking beer, your chances of getting bitten are increased. If you drink beer next to still water, you’re probably doomed to be bitten.

Being outside during sunrise, sunset and early evening
These are the times where mosquitoes are most active. Unfortunately these are also the times where the sky and outdoor atmosphere are most beautiful. That’s where these preventative measures come in handy.

BEFRIEND

Women and children
For some reason mosquitoes tend to gravitate towards biting women and children. Sticking in groups with these people decreases your attractiveness to these bugs.

Natural repellents
Citronella oil and candles are natural mosquito repellents. As are basil, vanilla, garlic, lavender and marigolds.

It is also believed that vitamin B12 (thiamine) when eaten, adds a component in your sweat that mosquitoes don’t like that is not detectable to humans. It takes about two weeks to start appearing in your sweat once you start taking it regularly.

Commercial repellents
There are a whole range of insect repellents available at pharmacies and supermarkets; it’s really just a matter of picking one to suit your needs and wants.

WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS

If avoidance and prevention fail you, and you get bitten, there are things you can do to stem the itch.

Natural remedies
Vinegar soaked cotton balls on bites can ease itching and swelling. Toothpaste can also ease itching.

To reduce swelling and itching as soon as you get bitten, try making a mixture of one teaspoon baking soda, to one cup water. Then soak a cloth in the mixture, and wring out about half of it before putting it on your sores for about 15 minutes undisturbed. Then dip an aspirin in the baking soda mixture (but don’t let it dissolve, just wet it) and run the aspirin over the sores. This method works by breaking down the enzyme mosquitoes spray on your skin pre-bite. Baking soda can be replaced with nail polish remover.

Avoid these if the skin is broken.

Commercial remedies
Just like repellents, post-bite remedies are readily available at supermarkets and pharmacies. They range from topical creams to electro-magnets.

Covering up your skin and seeking shade also help in the quest to avoid the sting.

This article first appeared on minx magazine.