Avoidance

• Where Possible avoid going out of doors between dusk and dawn
• Wear long sleeves to cover your arms and long trousers
• Avoid dark coloured clothing
• If possible choose an air-conditioned room
• Keep doors and windows closed
• Avoid using perfumes and aftershaves
• Choose a room above the third floor. Insects don't tend to fly to this height. Of course they do get carried.
• If living in the area ensure there are no open water containers. Still water is often the preferred breading ground of some insects.

Insect Repellents and Other Items

• Use repellents with between 30 to 50% Deet (diethyltolumide) are the most effective. Higher dosages and non-Deet products are available for Children.
• Wash excess of your skin before going to bed.
• Use a Mosquito net if necessary and ensure it is correctly fitted
• Use Mosquito nets impregnated with permethrin to discourage insects from landing on the net.
• Use sprays around dawn and dusk.
• Mosquito coils and plug-in repellents are very effective.
• High pitched buzzers are not effective.

Reactions and Allergies

• Creams which contain steroids or antibiotics are most effective against bites
• Carry some anti histamine tablets. Remember these react with alcohol so reduce your intact or abstain.
• If your allergy is very severe you may need to take anti histamine throughout your time abroad. In this case start the day before you arrive and for a day after you return. More modern anti histamines are now non-sedative.
• If you are prone to collapse or anaphylactic shock when bitten or stung make certain your wear a medi-alert bracelet all the time. Also inform your courier and ensure other members of your party are aware of your condition. In some cases you may consider carrying an epi-pen. This contains a single dose of adrenaline for instances of anaphylactic shock.

Easing and Soothing

• Try and avoid scratching bites as this is how they become infected. Rubbing gently will have the same soothing effect and lead to less trouble.
• Try a luke warm bath or shower
• If irritation is severe try sleeping tablets at night.

Getting Advice
Seek medical advise before you travel especially if you are prone to reactions If you have been badly bitten attend a doctor on your return.

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