Insect and Mosquito Bite Protection

Frontier Healthcare

Mosquitoes can carry dangerous viruses like dengue, malaria, zika and chikungunya.

Use an insect repellant containing the following ingredients:

    • DEET
      • This is most commonly used as it is also effective against other insects like sandflies, fleas and ticks

    • Picardin
      • Protects against mosquitoes and sandflies

    • PMD (P-methane-3,8-diol, the active ingredient in oil of lemon eucalyptus)
      • Protects against mosquitoes, gnats and sandflies

Tips for Applying Insect Repellant:

    • Apply repellant to exposed skin and clothing (but not under clothing)
    • Use just enough to lightly cover the skin and clothing, but not saturate either
    • Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, rashes or open wounds and cuts
    • Avoid spraying repellant directly on the face. Instead, you can spray a light layer onto your hands and use your fingers to apply it onto your face. Wash your hands after with soap and water.
    • If both sunscreen and insect repellant are required, apply sunscreen first before the repellant
    • Avoid applying insect repellant on the hands of young children, as they tend to put their fingers in their mouths and rub their eyes
    • Avoid spraying insect repellant in enclosed areas so as not to inhale the repellant
    • Avoid spraying insect repellant near exposed food and drink

Other Tips:

    • Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants – however, mosquitoes may also bite through thin clothing
    • Use a mosquito net if you will be sleeping outdoors
    • Consider permethrin-treated clothing

By taking simple precautions like using repellent, wearing protective clothing, and staying in well-secured accommodations, you can enjoy your travels without the irritation or health risks of insect bites.