One day when my daughter was young she asked me, “Papa, why did God make mosquitoes?” I do remember not having a very good answer for her.
The biologist may reply with something about mosquito larvae being an important part of the wetlands ecosystem; but most people including myself, probably wouldn’t miss them if they weren’t around. Even early scientists named the mosquito that transmits malaria (to the genus) Anopheles, which is derived from the Greek anofelís, meaning “good-for-nothing”.
As a travel medicine specialist, I do know that mosquitoes represent one of the biggest health risks for international travelers; especially those traveling to tropical destinations. In our temperate climate, mosquitoes are mostly a harmless nuisance, but throughout much of the world they are vectors (carriers) for many serious and often deadly diseases.
Mosquitoes can Transmit Malaria
Malaria is one of the most deadly mosquito-borne diseases in the world. More than a half a million people die each year from malaria; the vast majority of them children under age 5.
Travelers are at risk of acquiring malaria as more people visit popular tourist destinations in South Asia, Africa, Central and South America and even the Caribbean. Mosquitoes that transmit malaria are found mostly in rural areas and bite at night, from dusk to dawn.
There is no vaccine to prevent malaria, but fortunately there are medications available that greatly reduce your chance of catching the disease. Visit a travel medicine clinic and your travel health provider will ensure that you have the right prescription.
Dengue, Zika and Chikungunya
If malaria isn’t scary enough, mosquitoes can also transmit Dengue Fever, which is now the most common insect borne disease in the world and endemic in more than 100 countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that half of the world’s population lives in areas at risk for Dengue. The same mosquitoes that carry dengue also transmit Zika and Chikungunya virus. Unlike malaria, these mosquitoes inhabit urban, populated areas and bite during daytime hours. There is currently no treatment available for Dengue, Chikungunya or Zika virus, but a new vaccine has become available for Chikungunya.
Mosquitos Also Transmit Yellow Fever
If you are traveling to Sub-Saharan Africa or the Amazon region in South America, you could be at risk for Yellow Fever which is also transmitted by yes, you guessed it – mosquitoes. You may be required to have an official record of Yellow Fever vaccination to be allowed entry into some countries. The Yellow Fever vaccine is only available from specially certified providers and travel clinics.
How to Prevent Mosquito Bites
Remember these practical tips:
- As much as possible, try to cover up with long-sleeved, loose-fitting clothing, long pants and socks.
- Use a long-acting insect repellant containing either DEET or Picaridin, ideally 30% – 50%. Apply to bare skin and consider it your “tropical cologne”.
- If staying in a malaria endemic area, sleep under mosquito netting or in air-conditioned accommodations.
- Wear clothing treated with the insecticide permethrin for an extra barrier of protection. Permethrin solution to pre-treat your clothes is available at TravelBug Health.
- Plan your trip to avoid areas or seasons when mosquitoes and other insects are more plentiful.
Interesting Facts:
- Ever wonder why safari-wear is khaki colored? One reason is that insects, including mosquitoes can’t see light colors very well. On the other hand, mosquitoes are attracted to dark colored clothing, especially navy blue. Pack your suitcase with khaki pants and white or light tops and the mosquitoes are more likely to ignore you.
- One way mosquitoes locate their victims is by detecting the carbon dioxide that they exhale.
