Cruises offer an excellent opportunity to escape to exotic locations away from the short, grey days of the British winter. The luxury of a hassle-free holiday melts away the usual stresses of holiday planning. However, this relaxed onboard mindset can lead people to become unprepared for their time ‘off-ship’, especially in relation to their health. The sanctuary of a ship can mask a number of potential health risks associated with travelling abroad once disembarked; protecting against mosquitoes is quickly forgotten.
One of the greatest travel health risks, especially in tropical regions, is posed by mosquitoes. Often dismissed as merely an irritation, mosquitoes are actually the deadliest animal on earth, responsible for over 750,000 deaths worldwide every year.
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Recent research revealed that insect bites (48%) and mosquitoes (47%) top the list of the most annoying things for British tourists abroad. Whilst mosquitoes in the UK don’t carry dangerous infectious diseases, mosquitoes abroad do. This lack of threat at home may explain why 48% of people state they would pack a mobile phone as a priority over an insect repellent.
However, with serious diseases such as Dengue Fever, Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria and Zika Virus all transmitted by mosquitoes, it is essential to be vigilant whilst travelling. While mosquitoes are active both day and night, holidaymakers face specific challenges during daylight hours. This is when people are more likely to wear swimming costumes or shorts, losing protection from long-sleeved clothing or mosquito nets. Sweating and continual dips in the pool due to the heat can also wash off repellents that aren’t water resistant.
When you are chasing the winter sun, protecting against mosquitos isn’t always straightforward. What is the solution? 2016 saw the launch of a new insect repellent in the UK: Moskito Guard®. Its active ingredient (20% Picaridin) is an alternative to DEET.
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So, what does this mean?
DEET is an active ingredient contained in many sprays that concentrate on protecting against mosquitoes. Whilst effective, it can have downsides. DEET can cause skin irritation, be greasy/sticky on application with an unpleasant smell, it can only be used on children in low concentrations and is not water resistant. In comparison, Picaridin is equally as effective and often superior when used at recommended concentrations (20%). However, Picaridin is much more pleasant to use with less risk of skin irritation.
The repellent of choice for many travelers, Moskito Guard® is scientifically proven to help provide up to 8 hours’ protection from biting insects in one application. With a pleasant smell and moisturising effect, it is water and sweat resistant as well as being suitable for use by pregnant women and children 24 months and older.
Moskito Guard® can be bought online through moskitoguard.co.uk/wintersun Ensure you protect yourself appropriately before travelling. Ideally seek travel health advice from your local specialist Travel Health Clinic or Pharmacy 4-8 weeks before travelling.
Our thanks to Valneva UK for their assistance with this article—Valneva is an established global vaccine company providing products protecting against mosquitoes and defending travellers from the risk of Japanese encephalitis and cholera. To find out more about Valneva UK visit their website: valnevauk.com
If you have enjoyed this article on winter sun: protecting against mosquitoes, click here to read more on Celebrity Angels about our guide to a trouble free holiday.
