Working at home in summer is fabulous - I get to wear shorts, t-shirts and a ponytail most of the time.
There's just one teeny, tiny problem which the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) team need to overcome: the vampires.
Not that kind, this kind.
And with me in shorts and t-shirt, there's such a menu for these little beasts to feast on.
Am I worried about malaria?
Nope, not in Joburg.
I'm just irritated with itching all the time.
You'd think I'd be honoured
Their subsonic team cry goes out to the mozzie fields around noon, and they choose a body part to attack before I even see one of the little beasties hovering around me. While they have a predilection for my ankles, they won't eschew chewing my knees, knuckles or elbows if they get a chance. They just love that English Type A blood. I must be known as a Michelin star experience in the Mozzie Zomato app. I wonder if I get a 5-star rating all around?
I'll pass on the honours, thank you ever so much.
My foolproof defense system
It's pretty basic, but the humble Tabard candle does a mighty fine job keeping the bloodsuckers at bay at my desk.
Coupled with one of these liquid repellent burners, I stand a fighting chance.
ACK! It's empty. I'm doomed.
And I know I'll be total mozzie bait as soon as I leave the room.
OHS lesson of the day
So hey, let's stay safe out there. Less itchin', less scritchin'!
Plenty of mosquitoes were harmed in the days leading up to this post
