Preventing Insect Bites
Overview
Hot, humid environments are breeding grounds for the types of mosquitos that carry disease such as , ,, and . There are no cures for any of these diseases, and although the symptoms are not usually life-threatening for healthy individuals, they can be extremely uncomfortable and in some cases, have lasting effects.
Preventing exposure to mosquito bites is important to reducing one’s risk of exposure. Before traveling, review recommended precautions for .
If you are concerned about a risk of exposure to a mosquito-borne illness, contact a specialist in travel medicine, such as or . Pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant planning to travel to a should consult with their OB/GYN. Travelers who display any of the symptoms outlined below should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Chikungunya
is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. include the Americas, Africa, Asia, Europe and the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Symptoms most associated with the virus are fever and joint pain. There are no medicines to treat Chikungunya and is recommended for some travelers.
Dengue
People who have contracted dengue typically experience symptoms similar to influenza. According to the , approximately half of the world’s population is at risk for dengue. The mosquito-borne viral infection is most commonly found in urban environments in tropical locations. Although there is no treatment for dengue, early detection can reduce mortality rates to below one percent.
Malaria
According to the World Health Organization, remains a significant global health issue, with transmission ongoing in over 90 countries. However, the overwhelming majority of malaria cases occur in Africa, accounting for approximately 90% of reported cases.
To protect yourself from malaria, it's crucial to take prescribed medications both before and after your trip. Even while taking medication, it's essential to avoid mosquito bites. Early symptoms of malaria often include fever, headache, and chills. If you experience these symptoms while traveling or after returning, seek medical attention immediately.
Yellow Fever
Travelers to certain regions of South America, especially coastal Brazil, and Africa, should be aware of the risk of . Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, body aches, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, yellow fever can lead to jaundice, bleeding, shock, or organ failure.
The most effective protection against yellow fever is vaccination. It's essential to get vaccinated at least 10 days before your trip. You can find a clinic near you by searching for
Zika
The is a relatively mild illness with symptoms like fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes. While there's no vaccine or treatment, severe cases are rare. Zika is transmitted by mosquitoes, so it's most common in tropical areas. To stay safe, avoid mosquito bites by using repellents and wearing protective clothing. The CDC’s page provides the latest information on exposure risks.
Zika can also be sexually transmitted. Condoms can help prevent sexual transmission. If you're pregnant or planning to be, discuss your risk with your healthcare provider as infection during pregnancy can cause certain .