How to Avoid Insect Bites while Traveling

Planning a vacation to Africa, Asia, or South America? These popular destinations can be endemic to many different vector-borne diseases such as dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, and malaria. Prior to your travel, it is important to be aware of the different ways you can do to help protect yourself from catching potentially life-threatening illnesses. Below we’ve summarized the key points you need to know to avoid insect bites.

Use an effective insect repellant

There are many kinds of insect repellant available on the market which can make it difficult to decide which one to take on your trip. Research has shown that insect repellants that contain DEET ≥ 30% or Icaridin (Picaridin) ≥ 20% are effective in repelling mosquitoes. DEET is often referred to as the “gold standard” amongst mosquito repellants, although the chemical can sometimes cause irritation in people with sensitive skin. This product can also be particularly smelly and greasy. Icaridin is an effective alternative to DEET products and is gentler on the skin. Its effect can also last longer and does not have a strong odor.

How to wear your insect repellant

It is important to wear your insect repellant on all exposed areas of the skin, paying particular attention to hands, wrists, ankles, neck, behind the ears, etc. as mosquitoes tend to bite in places that have not been coated with insect repellant. Avoid applying repellant to your eyes and mouth. If using sunscreen, ensure that you apply the sunscreen first before applying insect repellant. Make sure to reapply the repellant every 8-12 hours or as directed on the label and reapply after swimming or taking a shower.

Other ways to prevent insect bites

• Cover up your skin by wearing light-colored long sleeve clothing, pants, and hats

• Sleep in accommodations with air-conditioning or are well-screened as much as possible

• If sleeping outdoors or in places that do not have air-conditioning, make sure to use mosquito netting over your bed and tucked under the mattress

• If able, use insecticidal spray indoors in the evening

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These are available at our Clinics:

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• TravelVAX Vancouver Downtown

• TravelVAX North Vancouver Lonsdale

• TravelVAX Victoria

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