Buzz Off!

Mosquitoes breed best in wet weather. Typical breeding grounds are places where fresh water is stagnant for 7 days, for instance, flower vases, wells, fountains and rainwater that collects on terraces and gutters. Mosquitoes cause malaria, dengue and chikungunya: Each year there are 2 to 2.5 million cases of malaria reported in the country. Recently, there were also several dengue and chikungunya outbreaks as well. Scientists at New Delhi's National Institute of Malaria Research offer these tips to fight off the pests:

• Keep storage water tanks covered with mosquito-proof lids. If there is a pond near your home, introduce larvae-eating gambusia or guppy fish in it. Some municipalities help obtain the fish.

• Empty and change the water in fountains, potted plant trays and air coolers at least once a week to destroy potential mosquito habitats. When not in use, keep buckets and other vessels upside down.

• Keep grass cropped and eliminate weeds. That's where most mosquitoes rest during the day.

• Install nettings on all windows and doors that lead out. Use mosquito nets on your beds too.

• Wear shoes, full-sleeved shirts and trousers or pyjamas outdoors. Choose light colours, as mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours.

• Use insect repellent on exposed areas of skin. Do not use it on infants under two months of age—the best protection for infants is to place mosquito nets over their beds.

- Aditya Kundalkar



Paint Problems Solved

Thinking of repainting? Here are some solutions to common paint woes.

WOE: You fear the rich, dark colour you picked will turn out blotchy.
FIX: Use a tinted primer before the topcoat.

WOE: You can’t tell from the tiny paint chip if you’ll like the colour.
FIX: Use a sample bottle on all walls to see how light changes the hue at all angles.

WOE: You want powder blue, but your spouse is arguing for dark green.
FIX: Agree on a neutral, and use other colours as accents in rugs and pillows.

- Cynthia Dermody



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