Mosquitoes, certain types of flies, ticks and bugs can transmit many different diseases e.g. malaria, dengue fever and yellow fever.  Some insects bite at night, but some during daytime. The most effective way to avoid these illnesses is to avoid being bitten.

• If your room is not air conditioned close shutters early in the evening and spray room with knockdown insecticide spray
• In malarious regions, if camping or sleeping in unprotected accommodation, always sleep under a mosquito net.  We recommend using a mosquito net impregnated with an insecticide e.g. permethrin.  Always check the expiry date as these nets have a limited shelf-life
• Avoid camping near areas of stagnant water which are common breeding areas for mosquitoes etc
• Electric insecticide vaporisers are very effective but rely on there being no power failures.  Electric buzzers, garlic and vitamin B are not effective
• Cover up skin as much as possible, particularly if going out at night.  Wear light coloured clothes, long sleeves, trousers or long skirts
• Use insect repellents on exposed skin
  
  

Choose those containing DEET or eucalyptus oil base.  A content of approximately 50% DEET is recommended for tropical destinations.

Clothes can be sprayed with repellents too. Impregnated wrist and ankle bands are also available.
Check suitability for children on the individual products.

If you are bitten :
Report any unexplained illness with symptoms such as fever, headache, malaise, muscle aches and fatigue.  See our Malaria Section.