'Right way' to apply mosquito repellent on holiday - and how to prevent bites

Mosquito bites aren't just frustratingly itchy - they can pose a considerable health risk when travelling to different parts of the world. Malaria, dengue, Zika and yellow fever are all diseases transmitted by these insects, potentially causing severe illness, which can sometimes be deadly.

It's important to check the proper advice for your summer holiday destination, and equally important to use repellent correctly. Repellents need to be applied both day and night, indoors and outdoors, in regions where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent.

Government advice, updated in 2023, suggests: "A product with 50% DEET is recommended as a first choice. If DEET is not tolerated, use of a repellent containing the highest strength formulation available of either icaridin (20%), eucalyptus citriodora oil, hydrated, cyclised or 3-ethlyaminopropionate is recommended."

While you may be tempted to apply repellent before sunscreen, the Government warns that it should always be used afterwards for the most effective results. Using suncreams with an SPF of 30 to 50 is also key, as DEET can reduce their potency.

Most repellents must be reapplied frequently, especially in hot countries and after spending time in the pool or sea. However, users are encouraged to read each repellent's packaging for more specific guidance.

"50% DEET is safe for those pregnant and breastfeeding and for babies older than two months," the Government's guidance adds. "Get advice before you travel from your doctor or pharmacist if your baby is aged under two months.

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"Take insect repellents with you—in case of shortages at your destination." It's also worth wearing long-sleeved clothing, trousers, long dresses, and socks to stop mosquitoes from reaching the skin.

Nets treated with insecticide are recommended too, particularly in situations where you might be sleeping outdoors or in a space without air conditioning.

The Government adds: "Check your net for rips and tuck the ends under the mattress. There may also be a risk of bites from ticks and other insects; the same protective measures will help reduce bites from these too..."

Travellers should always check NaTHNaC's information pages for more specific location-based information regarding disease risks. Four to six weeks before a trip, visiting a practice nurse, GP, or pharmacist is generally advisable, as vaccinations and medications may be encouraged in certain situations.

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"Yellow fever vaccine is recommended for certain countries, and antimalarial tablets may be advised to protect against malaria for some destinations," the Government adds.

"If you have health problems, are pregnant or planning pregnancy it is particularly important to get tailored pre-travel advice six to eight weeks before travel. With careful preparation, most pregnant women are able to travel without experiencing health problems."

You can also head to the Government's website for further insights.

Three key ways to prevent mosquito bites while travelling

Use mosquito nets in situations where you are sleeping outside or in spaces without air conditioning

Frequent and correct application of insect repellent - putting it on after sun cream

Wear long-sleeved clothes, socks, trousers and long skirts where possible