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Mosquitos and how to repel them is a high priority for many during the warmer months.
Some are even resorting to mobile phone apps that claim to repel buzzing mosquitoes. But do these apps really work?
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Unfortunately, “It’s all wishful thinking,” writes Cameron Webb Clinical Lecturer and Principal Hospital Scientist, South Western Sydney Local Health District in an article for The Conversation. “There is no evidence sound emitting devices can stop mosquitoes biting.”
Dozens of mosquito repellent apps are available for download on smartphones. The apps claim to play sound frequencies that are a deterrent to mosquitoes.
RELATED: Simple ways to keep mosquitoes at bay
“A review of field testing showed no protection was provided. Similarly, laboratory studies failed to show any bite prevention,” Cameron said. “Studies have even demonstrated these sound-emitting devices actually increase mosquito bites by the Asian Tiger Mosquito and Yellow Fever mosquito.”
“There’s no reason to think smartphone apps are going to perform any better than any of the other gimmicks that have come and gone from supermarket shelves over the decades. If they cannot stop mosquito bites, they won’t prevent mosquito-borne disease.”
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