Mosquito bites pose significant health risks by transmitting diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and Zika virus. Protecting yourself against bites is essential, especially in areas where these diseases are prevalent. Repellents should be applied during the day and at night on any exposed skin.
Before travelling you should:
- Assess the risks for vector-borne diseases
- Making sure all routine vaccinations have been done
- Get all healthcare professional-recommended vaccinations and/ or need for malaria tablets
- Consider packing protective clothing, insect repellents, insecticide-treated bed nets, plug-in insecticides, a first aid kit, aftercare for bites, antihistamines, and painkillers.
Where is mosquito bite prevention needed?
Prevention is crucial in tropical and subtropical areas where the climate supports mosquito breeding and survival. Notable regions and associated diseases include:
- Sub-Saharan Africa: High malaria burden, requiring preventative measures for residents and travellers.
- Southeast Asia: frequent dengue outbreaks.
- Latin America and the Caribbean: Significant cases of Zika virus and dengue fever, especially in rainy seasons.
- South Asia: seasonal dengue and malaria outbreaks.
- Central and Western Africa: Previous yellow fever endemics necessitate vaccinations and preventative measures.
- Pacific islands: Outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases during heavy rainfall.
- Middle East: Malaria concerns in areas like Yemen and Saudi Arabia.
Antimalarials
High-risk groups include infants, children under 5 years, pregnant women, travellers and individuals with HIV or AIDS. The choice of antimalarial can depend on factors such as side effects, age, pregnancy, extent of drug resistance and so on.
Common antimalarials are:
- Atovaquone with Proguanil Hydrochloride
- Chloroquine
- Mefloquine
- Doxycycline
Chemical Repellents
Chemical repellents are effective for preventing mosquito bites and are safe for individuals over 2 months old, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide)
- Offers long-lasting protection of up to 12 hours.
- Recommended at 50% concentration.
- Picardin (also known as icaridin or KBR 3023)
- Odourless.
- At least 20% concentration is recommended.
Application tips:
- Apply to exposed skin and clothing, avoiding mouth, eyes, and open wounds.
- Apply sunscreen first, then repellent.
- Reapply after swimming, sweating, or washing.
Natural Repellents
For those who prefer natural options, effective alternatives include oil of lemon eucalyptus, geraniol, catnip oil, cinnamon oil, and scented oils such as rosemary, thyme, lavender and peppermint.
Additional preventive measures
- Wear protective clothing: long sleeves and pants in light colours.
- Treat clothing and bed nets with Permethrin.
- Use mosquito nets in prevalent areas.
- Use fans indoors and outdoors to keep mosquitoes at bay.
- Use 0.5% Permethrin spray on clothing.
Treating a mosquito bite
The itching must be treated promptly to prevent skin damage and infection. Buy bite relief creams such as hydrocortisone 1% and antihistamine tablets before travelling for those prone to severe reactions.
Conclusion
Preventing mosquito bites is crucial for avoiding serious health risks. By using effective repellents and taking additional preventative measures, you can significantly reduce your chances of being bitten.