A medical myth persists that the B vitamin thiamine is a systemic insect repellent that wards off mosquitoes when taken orally. But scientists have disproven this mistaken belief again and again.
Summer is no fun when mosquitoes are biting. Insect repellent creams, sprays, and lotions are safe and effective but there are alternatives. Here’s what works and what doesn’t!
Could a commonly used mosquito repellent kill off coronavirus? Preliminary studies in the UK are encouraging — but that doesn’t mean you should reach for repellents to protect against COVID-19.
Cameron Webb, South Western Sydney Local Health District
The sounds of mosquitoes may be annoying to many but tuning into their musical whines could help design new mosquito traps. Just don’t expect sounds from your smartphone to protect you from bites!
Bananas, garlic, vitamin B and beer. There is little scientific evidence backing claims that what we eat and drink changes how likely we are to be bitten by mosquitoes.