Protection against Mosquitoes and Other Arthropods

General Preventive Measures

The principal approach to prevention of vector-borne diseases is avoidance. Tick- and mite-borne infections characteristically are diseases of "place;" whenever possible, known foci of disease transmission should be avoided. Although many vector-borne infections can be prevented by avoiding rural locations, certain mosquito- and midge-borne arboviral and parasitic infections are transmitted seasonally, and simple changes in itinerary can greatly reduce risk for acquiring them.

Travellers should be advised that exposure to arthropod bites can be minimized by modifying patterns of activity or behaviour. Some vector mosquitoes are most active in twilight periods, at dawn and dusk or in the evening. Avoidance of outdoor activity during these periods can reduce risk of exposure. Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats minimizes areas of exposed skin. Shirts should be tucked in. Repellents applied to clothing, shoes, tents, mosquito nets, and other gear will enhance protection.

When exposure to ticks or biting insects is a possibility, travellers should be advised to tuck their pants into their socks and to wear boots, not sandals. Permethrin-based repellents applied as directed (see the following section, "Repellents") will enhance protection. Travellers should be advised to inspect themselves and their clothing for ticks, both during outdoor activity and at the end of the day. Ticks are detected more easily on light-colored or white clothing. Prompt removal of attached ticks can prevent some infections.

When accommodations are not adequately screened or air conditioned, bed nets are essential to provide protection and comfort. Bed nets should be tucked under mattresses and can be sprayed with a repellent such as permethrin. The permethrin will be effective for several months if the bed net is not washed. Aerosol insecticides can help to clear rooms of mosquitoes.