Stores low on bug spray as mosquito populations climb amid rainy June

As Edmonton sees some of its highest mosquito population levels in a decade, CTV News Edmonton's Amanda Anderson looked at how to combat mosquito bites.

You might have a difficult time getting your hands on mosquito repellent as the city has seen a surge in the blood-sucking pest following a period of heavy rain.

James Varley, store manager at a west Edmonton Canadian Tire, said he has never seen stock so low on bug spray and other repellent tools.

“We’re down to the bare minimum. Stuff basically comes in daily and we put it on the floor and it just goes away,” said Varley, adding that he recommends shoppers check online for stock and order for pickup.

Pharmacies are also seeing shortages for bug repellent and treatment products.

“It’s that time of the year that there is more demand than supply,” said pharmacist Molly Patel. “Because of so much rain in the past month, the mosquitoes have gone crazy.”

Patel adds that it’s been difficult for pharmacies to keep their stock full as people rush to get bug spray and bite treatments.

But there are at-home treatments that can be used to treat itchiness like a cold compress, calamine lotion, or even oatmeal paste, said Patel.

“There are some creams that are oatmeal-based that you can also apply to calm down the itchiness, just in case you cannot get a hold of the actual After Bite products.”

As for avoiding actually getting bitten, there’s not much you can do other than avoid going outside during dawn and dusk hours, and wearing long garments that cover the skin.

With more rain in the forecast for the capital region, the city’s senior scientist says we can expect to see a few more waves going into the peak of summer.

“Usually (adult mosquitoes) are around for about a week, and then it can take a week or so for their eggs to develop after that,” Mike Jenkins told CTV News Edmonton. “As long as the precipitation continues, those generations can keep on going throughout the entire season.”

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Amanda Anderson and Sierra Dolson