Texas is the second state in America to experience a Zika-infection based on a home-grown mosquito. Florida was the first though Miami has recently been cleared of all Zika-carrying mosquitos.
Now although mosquito season has sunsetted for now, the scary outcome of local virus-carrying insects could mean that the rest of the US is susceptible for its mosquitoes to start carrying the dangerous virus which causes deformity in babies being incubated if their mom is bitten and become infected.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to study the epidemic, and issue warnings and advice based on its findings, everyday folks must remain vigilante and be sure to wear mosquito repellent. This precaution is especially necessary for pregnant women, including those that live in warmer climates where mosquitoes exist or are flying around.
In addition to repellent, some clothing manufacturers are beginning to produce clothes that have an added repellent effect. For example, Nobitech is a Los Angeles, California-based athletic apparel company that sells garments treated with Skintex MR III, which is the only apparel treatment approved by the Environment Protection Agency to repel mosquitoes using microencapsulated technology.
Some of the garments in apparel 2016 Rio Summer Games athletes wore had Skintex technology which repels ants, flies, chiggers and midges, and is touted as a supplement to repel mosquitoes that may carry the West Nile Virus, Zika and Lyme disease-carrying ticks.
As an avid runner, serial charity race participant and outdoor trainer and exerciser, I was quite excited to receive a complimentary long sleeve pull over top with a zipper (retails: $32.85) and running pants (retails: $55.75) to review. They both are made 100% of microfiber polyester pk maX and fit ultra comfortably while looking quite stylish. You wouldn’t even know they had a dual purpose because they resemble any other athletic clothing on the market, complete with the inherent moisture wicking quality.
For running and biking in the late evenings, there is reflective tape in the front and back. I also think I looked super cute in it and had to take a selfie for the Gram. (smile)
The clothing has a shorter shelf life than some because they are only effective for 25 washes. Afterwards, it loses its repellent effectiveness and that is because the durable carrier used to bind permethrin to the garment dilutes over time. Also, to maintain effectiveness, the clothing should be washed separate form other clothing or washables. After worn out, the makers suggest that the clothing not be re purposed but instead disposed of in the trash so it does not contaminate water, food, or feed for storage or disposal.
But there should be no fear over the treatment because it is that technology that makes it work. Chamber tests have shown a significantly lower number of bites through a shirt containing microencapsulated permethrin versus one that has non-encapsulated permethrin.
The price point starting at just $19.95 is pretty decent and very competitive given that, when combined with wearing mosquito repellent on the skin, you’re getting extra protection from life-altering viruses when wearing Nobitech clothing.
There are no maternity sizes but they go up to XXL and the material has plenty of stretch to accommodate a growing tummy for those who are expecting and love exercising outdoors or who simply want the extra protection of mosquito repellent clothing when out and about.
It’s a good choice for those who may just want to stay holed up at home while expecting. This clothing should provide some extra level of comfort if anything because it’s just an additional step of precaution. Get yours on their website at Nobitech!