They’re tiny, fast, and capable of turning a balmy Riviera evening into an itchy nightmare and right now, the weather is giving mosquitoes everything they need to thrive…
Forget the folklore. According to experts, the most reliable defence comes from repellents containing icaridin or citriodiol. These sprays or lotions work best when applied directly to exposed skin, although for children and those with sensitive skin, treating clothing can help avoid reactions. Your personal pheromones also play a role; the more you emit, the tastier you smell to mosquitoes.
Electric lamps and plug-in devices can work, but their protection is limited to a small radius. Step outside that invisible bubble and the mosquitoes are back in business. That’s why sprays, lotions, long clothing, and mosquito nets remain the most effective long-term strategies; and reapplying regularly is key.
The summer menace doesn’t stop at mosquitoes. Jellyfish stings, another seasonal hazard, require a different approach. Prevention is best, with wetsuits or Lycra swim gear offering a physical barrier. If stung, skip the old wives’ tales; no fresh water, and definitely no urine. Instead, rinse the area thoroughly in seawater, scrape to remove any remaining vesicles, and apply a cortisone-based cream to reduce inflammation.
Whether on land or at sea, smart prevention and swift, proper treatment can mean the difference between an evening under the stars or a night spent scratching your scars!
