It’s the time of year when you are likely to have uninvited guests to your backyard gatherings and picnics at the park: mosquitoes.
We’ve written before about proven methods to avoid mosquito bites. Last week, the New York Times reported on a new method that avoids bug repellents and bites: using a fan outdoors.
In fact, the American Mosquito Control Association endorses the idea as well. It works, they explain , because mosquitoes are relatively weak fliers – reaching speeds of only 1.5 miles per hour. In addition, they weigh only a few milligrams. In contrast, a typical house fan blows at about 15 miles per hour – easily overpowering mosquitoes.
The Times also cited a study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology. (Unfortunately, we weren’t able to find a systematic review on this one.) Researchers measured mosquito populations caught in traps under various conditions. They found that wind velocity and the chemical N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide, or DEET, were the two most effective methods to avoid mosquitoes, and suggested backyard fans as a practical solution.
If you’re looking for more information on mosquitoes, the American Mosquito Control Association has published a fascinating FAQ page that includes evidence-based information on bug-related topics including bug zappers, ultrasonic devices and bats.
A fan is a good idea, I can see it working.
But it could bother some people that can’t stand strong air currents. I have sensible eyes and roll up the windows even when I drive. If not my eyes start watering and it becomes painful to keep them open.
Still, thinking of more interesting solutions to deter mosquitoes can only be a good thing.
Great post . This blog is very nice for us health. Mosquitoes is very dangerous for us health. I didn’t know about this method . I also want to try follow this method for avoid this mosquitoes. Thank you for the information.