Press Release:
This rainy season, moms can now count on added protection from mosquitoes for their kids as studies show that the fabric conditioner Downy Antibac lessens mosquito landings on fabric by at least 33%.
The efficacy of Downy Antibac in repelling mosquitoes was discovered in studies done by 4 independent institutions around Asia including the Philippine Association of Entomologists (PAE).
In the Mosquito Repellency test, panelists exposed their fabric-wrapped arms to mosquitoes for a set amount of time. The number of mosquitoes was then counted for the fabric washed in Downy Antibac and the fabric not washed in Downy Antibac.
“When we first found out about Downy Antibac, we wanted to test it ourselves because this was the first fabric conditioner we’ve heard of that offers mosquito repelling benefits,” said Cecille D. Ebuenga, President of the PAE.
“We were very happy with the results, which showed 53% less incidence of mosquito landing on the fabric washed with Downy Antibac. These are even better than the scores from the other countries! It means that moms now have an additional way to protect their kids from mosquitoes, which are among the most dangerous insects to humans because of the diseases they can carry.”
This news is especially relevant for families during this typhoon season, where mosquitoes are more prevalent.
“Mosquito eggs cannot hatch without water, though they can live up to 2 months in dry weather. As soon as they come in contact with water though, they will hatch and in around a week they will grow from wigglers to become adult mosquitoes,” said Ebuenga.
He further explained that skin temperature and moisture serve as short-range attractants for mosquitoes – the ammonia in sweat in particular, seems to be the most important chemoattractant for humans. Furthermore, incubated or aged sweat is significantly more attractive than fresh sweat for mosquitoes.
Microorganisms present in fresh sweat shows distinct growth during incubation so to help repel mosquitoes, Downy Antibac works by preventing the growth of malodor-causing germs on fabrics. It contains an antibacterial ingredient that deposits on fabric and ruptures the cell walls of bacteria therefore, preventing germ-growth and minimizing bacteria population that can contribute to sweaty malodor.
Ebuenga also stressed the importance of hygiene in helping to prevent the proliferation of mosquitoes in our home and community. Ensuring that there are no sources of stagnant water in or around your home is one key way to help lessen mosquitoes by preventing them from breeding.
“If you have vases in the home, make sure that you empty it once or twice a week so it doesn’t become a breeding ground for mosquito eggs. Same goes for flowerpots in your garden – the insides of flowerpots are also good nesting places for mosquitoes,” he said.
He also suggested to use mosquito repellent lotion to help keep mosquitoes away.