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    Housecall: Managing mosquitoes

a close-up of a mosquito on a green leafTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Preventing mosquito bites
Scratching mosquito bites and feeling itchy can ruin a summer day. And bites from mosquitoes carrying certain viruses or parasites can cause severe illness. From limiting your exposure to making your home and yard a mosquito-free zone, here's how to avoid getting bitten in the first place.

First aid for choking
A piece of food often is the culprit when someone is choking, and young children often swallow small objects that can be choking hazards. Because choking cuts off oxygen to the brain, it's important to administer first aid as quickly as possible. Do you know the "five-and-five" approach or the Heimlich maneuver? Learning these techniques could save someone's life.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Can natural hormone treatments help adult acne?
Adult acne can be a distressing and frustrating problem. And, while hormones likely play a role in the development of adult acne, hormones generally aren't its root cause. Learn more from Dr. Lawrence Gibson, a Mayo Clinic dermatologist.

Does childhood exposure to germs prevent asthma?
The hygiene hypothesis proposes that childhood exposure to germs and certain infections helps the immune system develop. This teaches the body to differentiate harmless substances from the harmful substances that trigger asthma. In theory, exposure to certain germs teaches the immune system not to overreact. Learn more from Dr. James Li, a Mayo Clinic allergist and immunologist.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Group B strep disease
Eye injury: Tips to protect vision
Grand mal seizure
Psoriasis and intimacy

HEALTHY RECIPES
Vanilla-poached peaches
Almond-crusted chicken
Tabbouleh salad
Strawberry shortcake

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Health-boosting nutrients
Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E and carotenoids, may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Other naturally occurring antioxidants include flavonoids, tannins, phenols and lignans. Plant-based foods are the best sources. These include fruits and vegetables and their juices, whole-grain products, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices, and cocoa.

Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover more healthy lifestyle topics at mayoclinic.org.

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