These Wristbands and Pricey Gadgets Don’t Keep Mosquitoes From Biting You

Nobody likes mosquitoes, but the mosquitoes sure do love us. Spraying your skin with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus keeps them at bay, but stores are full of wristbands, candles, clothing, and other products that claim to repel bugs without those nasty “chemicals.” Some of them might help, but none are reliable.

If you’re only worried about itchy bites, you might be okay with a partially effective product. But it’s a different story if you’re trying to prevent disease. The Culex mosquitoes found throughout the US can transmit West Nile virus. Complications are rare, but it’s still good to avoid. More importantly, the Aedes mosquitoes found in the southern US, and in central and south America, can carry Zika as well as other nasty diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever. If you live anywhere near the areas where Zika is spreading, and you or your partner are pregnant or could become pregnant, bring out the bug spray already. Don’t wait for nightfall, either—Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day.