Whether you’re planning a family trip abroad or just enjoying summer evenings at home, mosquito bites are more than just itchy nuisances—they can carry serious diseases like malaria, dengue, Zika, chikungunya, yellow fever, and even West Nile virus.
At Park Pediatrics & Park Travel Clinic, we want to help you and your family stay safe, healthy, and bite-free this season.
Heading Abroad? Start Here.
When you travel to parts of Africa, Asia, South America, or the Caribbean, the risk of mosquito-borne illness can be higher. Prevention is key, and we’ve got five essential tips every traveler should follow:
Top 5 Ways to Prevent Mosquito Bites
1. Use EPA-Approved Insect Repellent
Look for repellents with ingredients like:
- DEET (20–30%)
- Picaridin
- Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (not for kids under age 3)
Apply after sunscreen and reapply as directed. Yes—repellents are safe for kids if used correctly!
2. Wear Protective Clothing
Cover exposed skin, especially during early morning and evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.
- Long sleeves, pants, and closed shoes help
- Light colors are less attractive to mosquitoes
- Permethrin-treated clothing offers added protection
3. Sleep Under Mosquito Nets
If you’re staying somewhere without screened windows or air conditioning, mosquito nets are a must. Choose nets that are:
- Treated with insecticide
- Tucked under your mattress
- Free of rips or holes
4. Avoid Mosquito Hotspots
Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so be aware of:
- Open containers, puddles, or still ponds
- High-risk times like dawn and dusk
- Poorly ventilated sleeping spaces
5. Visit a Travel Clinic Before You Go
Consult your doctor or a travel medicine specialist to find out:
- Which vaccines are recommended (e.g. yellow fever)
- Whether malaria pills or other medications are needed
- What risks exist based on your specific destination
What About Mosquitoes at Home?
You don’t have to go far to be at risk. West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses are found right here in the U.S.
To protect your family:
- Use repellent when outdoors
- Eliminate standing water in your yard
- Install window screens and use fans to keep mosquitoes away
- Dress in protective clothing during outdoor activities
Final Tips from Park Pediatrics & Park Travel Clinic:
Mosquito-borne diseases are preventable with the right preparation. Whether you’re exploring new countries or just your backyard, a few simple steps can keep your family protected all summer long.
Watch our full video on mosquito prevention here:
Planning international travel?
Schedule a visit with our Park Travel Clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalized advice, vaccinations, and prescriptions tailored to your trip.
Visit us online at: www.parktravelclinic.com
Dr. Lavanya Sithanandam
Medical Director, Park Pediatrics
