How to Avoid Mosquitoes and Malaria

Not only are mosquitoes annoying with their irritating buzz, they can also cause very itchy and sore bites. If that's not bad enough they can spread horrible diseases like malaria and dengue fever. It's therefore best to avoid being bitten in the first place. Below are some preventative measures to avoid mosquitoes and make sure you stay healthy on your gap year:

• Insect repellent is a great way to avoid mosquitos and malaria. Sprays with DEET are most effective. Check out the travel section in your local chemist. Remember to take some out with you in the evening so you can re-apply.
• Mosquitoes like to come out to play around dusk and dawn, so keep covered up and wear a long-sleeved top and long trousers during these times to avoid getting bitten.
• To avoid mosquitoes and malaria at bedtime, use a mosquito net if you know they are about. Mosquito nets are small and light to carry around and can be put up easily in no time. Mosquito nets should be impregnated with an insecticide.
• Use a smoke coil or a plug-in mosquito killer to deter mosquitoes and avoid malaria.
• If you're travelling in an area with a malaria risk remember to visit your GP or travel clinic before you leave to stock up on malaria tablets.
• Malaria tablets are great, but they are not always 100% effective. They should always be combined with other methods of avoiding mosquitoes and malaria. If you start to feel unwell or experience fevers, during your trip or even after your return, please do get yourself checked out by a doctor.