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.
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There is plenty of misinformation circulating about ticks and the diseases they may carry. Here are four myths debunked, along with tick facts to keep people safe when exploring the outdoors.
Summer is here, and so are the mozzies. So what do you need to consider when you’re picking a mosquito repellent?
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.
Mosquito coils can help beat the bite of mosquitoes are most effective outdoors, and best avoided in closed, indoor settings.
While slipping on a wrist band or sticking on a patch may be an attractive alternative, they’re unlikely to provide any substantial protection from biting mosquitoes.
Top contributors
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Cameron Webb is a Friend of The Conversation.Clinical Associate Professor and Principal Hospital Scientist, University of Sydney
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Joint PhD candidate, Department of Biology, McGill University
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Associate Professor of Entomology, National Taiwan University
