Advanced mosquito repellents aim to keep these insects away more effectively and efficiently. The increasing resistance against insecticides pushes the need for better mosquito repellents. That is why scientists are discovering more ways to keep these insects away from everyone’s personal space. Here is an advanced mosquito repellent that can help keep communities safer from mosquito-borne diseases.
Portable Mosquito Repellent
This device was developed at the University of Florida. It was for the U.S. Military. The device does not need skin contact, heat, or electrical power. Still, it can protect an area against mosquitoes for a longer period. The Department of Defense funded the Warfighter Protection Program. This advanced mosquito repellent has a controlled-release feature.
Recently, it was tested with flying colors during the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s four-week semi-field study. It was a collaboration with the USDA’s Center for Medical Agriculture and Veterinary Entomology. Results revealed that the controlled release of transfluthrin effectively kept many mosquito species away from the testing site. This organic insecticide is a safe one for animals and humans.
The Advantages
The following are some of the advantages of this new mosquito repellent:
- It eliminates the need for insecticides and topical repellents.
- It does not contaminate bodies of water and plants.
- It does not harm pollinators.
- It does not need heat or electricity to activate the solution inside.
Protecting soldiers in their missions in the field is always one of the DOD’s priorities. Portable advanced mosquito repellents can shield soldiers from dangerous illnesses like malaria and the West Nile virus. The controlled-release device has tube-shaped polypropylene plastic, 2.5 centimeters long. It holds cotton that has the repellent and two smaller tubes. The device can repel or kill mosquitoes within 24 hours. This level of protection can even last for up to three months. It is a passive device because it doesn’t need anything to activate.
Other Uses
Scientists believe that advanced mosquito repellents have other uses as well. They say that there is an ongoing patent application for it. The government wants to perform more studies to make these devices can be useful for civilians. Here are other possible uses to consider:
- Prevents many species of mosquitoes from biting or entering a living space
- Personal mosquito protection in different sizes
- Outdoor protection against mosquitoes
- Protection against ticks and other vectors of harmful diseases
The Primary Mosquito Control Methods
Mosquito control involves two main techniques of controlling the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases. The following are details about them:
- Targeting the vector is the common method. It is easily accessible and prevents the insect from transmitting to the host. The strategies include mass drug administration, prophylaxis, antivirals, antibiotics, and vaccinations. They control etiologic agents like some Plasmodium strains and filarial parasites.
- Preventing the vector’s disease transmission. Biting deterrents and control of vector populations are two of the strategies used. Repelling these insects is becoming more challenging because of the resistance of wild mosquitoes to insecticides.
Advanced mosquito repellents can help control mosquito populations in the military setting. Soldiers also need protection from mosquito-borne diseases. The effectiveness of this portable technology has convinced scientists that civilians can also enjoy bite-free experiences, wherever and whenever. Having these repellents in any size can make life healthier and safer from mosquitoes.