For decades we’ve been able to buy devices that play noises that are supposed to repel mosquitoes, and for just as many decades they have been completely useless. Now, instead of buying a device, you can now download an app. Guess what? It still won’t work.
“It’s all wishful thinking. There is no evidence sound emitting devices can stop mosquitoes biting,” mosquito scientist Cameron Webb writes for The Conversation.
And yet both the iTunes and Google Play app stores have dozens of listings for mosquito repellent apps. Some claim to work, while others carry disclaimers like “Important! It has not been scientifically proven that low frequency sounds can help to repel mosquitoes. For this reason, this app should be considered as a joke app.”
Another helpfully points out: “You can also [use] this app like a prank to annoying your friends with this sound :)”
If you want to actually keep mosquitoes away, turn on a fan. The breeze keeps mosquitoes from being able to sniff you out by your breath. For extra protection, apply a bug spray containing an effective ingredient like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Those, unlike sonic repellent apps, actually work.
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