Bob McCarty Writes

All of the rain this spring, especially in the Midwest, is likely to result in more mosquitoes during the summer. As a result, many Americans will want to mosquito-proof their homes and protect themselves from the flying carriers of West Nile Virus. Below, I offer the results of my web search for mosquito-repelling and mosquito-proofing products now available:

Made of 100 percent Nycott nylon, BUZZ OFF Men’s Air Strip Pants allow you to scramble through a low-lying wooded trail or paddle along a lake shore. Each pair is treated with an unscented insect shield that will keep you cool and keep the bugs away when you venture into these traditionally mosquito-ridden spots.

• From ExOfficio’s BUZZ OFF line, this Wicknet Half-Zip shirt features Wicknet (57 % cotton, 43% polyester) fabric with moisture wicking, 30-plus UPF and a thumb slot on extended sleeves. With shaping seams and a scalloped hemline for a feminine fit, it combines Permethrin, a man-made odorless and colorless version of a natural insect control product, with comfortable outdoor wear.

• This top brand Boonie Hat, made from cotton and polyester material, is ideal for warm weather climates and comes with a special no-see-um mosquito netting made of a strong polyester fabric.

• Made of knitted polyester mesh, the a Texsport Hiker’s Mosquito Net is designed for the individual camper and stretches 6 feet 6 inches high and 6 feet 11 inches long and ranges from 4 feet night inches wide at the front to 3 feet three inches in the back.

• The 20′ x 12′ Deluxe Party Tent is designed to make your next camping trip or backyard party more enjoyable! It features a stylish green screened canopy that offers a pest-free space of shady and comfort.

• The Patch Care Mosquito Repellent Peel-and-Stick Patch requires no skin contact, contains no chemicals, spray or sticky lotion and protects for up to 12 hours. Best of all, it’s all natural and Deet free. Place it on your clothes, shoes, chairs, strollers, etc., and keep mosquitoes away while you enjoy the outdoors.

• Offering a natural alternative to harsh chemicals and sprays, Citronella Wipes keep annoying insects at bay. Perfect for travel, BBQ’s, picnics and the great outdoors. Its unique formula is non-greasy and spreads evenly to get all over coverage. These “Made in the USA” towelettes contain natural citronella, eucalyptus and cedarwood extracts and is 100% deet-free. Each box contains 12 wipes, each packaged in handy travel packs.

• The DynaTrap™ DT-1000 Insect Eliminator effectively eliminates mosquitoes, flies, moths, asian beetles, no-seeums, wasps, and yellow jackets without the use of propane. Two UV fluorescent bulbs produce warm light to attract insects. The titanium dioxide coated funnel works with the warmth of the light to product carbon dioxide which is irresisble to lure mosquitos and other flying insects into the Dynatrap™.