Battling biting bugs - a common summertime task at Travis

  • Published
  • By Capt. Robert Martin
  • 60th Aerospace Medicine Squadron
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Insect bites and stings are common occurrences during the summer months and can be very bothersome and even dangerous. By understanding insect behavior, most encounters with these little terrors can be avoided. 

Mosquitoes: they feed primarily at dawn and dusk. They are usually found within a few miles of a water source, ranging from a stream to stale rainwater in a potted plant. During the heat of day, they usually rest in shaded areas but can be stirred up if disturbed. The primary concern with mosquito bites is transmission of West Nile Virus to humans. 

Even though the infection risk is relatively low, follow these easy tips and just avoid them altogether: 

- Avoid dawn and dusk when they are most active or apply DEET to areas of skin not covered by clothing. Wear long sleeve shirts and pants when possible 

- Avoid shady areas during the heat of day where they may be resting 

- Drain areas where rain or water from sprinklers may accumulate such as used tires, flower pot coasters or the kid’s plastic swimming pool 

- Use Citronella candles around the patio when sitting outside at dusk 

Bees, yellow jackets, wasps and hornets: These insects can be found throughout the area and can pack a painful sting. The first step to avoid stings is not to attract them in the first place. Wear solid neutral colors like khaki or white, avoiding floral patterns. Don’t use scented soaps, perfume, fragrant sunscreen or hair products. 

When cooking outside, keep food covered until ready to serve. Fresh fruit, soft drinks and uncovered garbage cans are especially inviting to yellow jackets. Those who find themselves near a swarm of bees should stand still or move away slowly. Don’t provoke an attack by swatting at the swarm. 

Individuals who are stung need to inspect the area carefully and determine if the stinger is still in their skin. Bees leave their stinger behind, which can continue to pump venom into a person’s skin, so it should be removed as soon as possible. Use a credit card to scrape it away. 

There are two types of reactions to a sting. One is a local skin reaction, which is painful and may become reddened and itchy. The other is a systemic reaction, which affects a person’s entire body. Symptoms include tightness of the chest, nausea, difficulty breathing or swallowing and may be life threatening. People who know they are allergic to stings should always carry an EpiKit (bee sting emergency kit) with them and seek medical attention immediately. 

For more information, contact the 60th Aerospace Medicine Squadron public health department at 423-5464.