Personal protective measures to prevent athropod bites.

1. Cover up: Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved, loose fitting, tucked-in shirts, long pants, shoes or boots (not sandals), and a hat.

2. Use insect repellent on exposed skin: It is recommended that adults use repellents that contain DEET (20-30%) or icaridin (20%). It is recommended that children six months to twelve years of age use repellents that contain icaridin (20%). As a second choice, this age group can use repellents with age-appropriate DEET concentrations as per label. Since publication of the PPM guidelines, p-Menthane-3,8-diol 20% has become available in Canada and is an option. If bites cannot be avoided using a physical barrier, consider use of up to 10% DEET or 10% icaridin for infants under six months of age.

3. Protect living areas from mosquito entry: Stay in a well-screened or completely enclosed air-conditioned room. Reduce your risk in work and accommodation areas by closing eaves, eliminating holes in roofs and walls and closing any other gaps.

4. If mosquito entry into living quarters cannot be otherwise prevented (e.g. by screening): Use a bed net (e.g. for sleeping or resting inside), preferably treated with insecticide. Netting can also be used to protect children in playpens, cribs, or strollers. Bed nets will also provide protection against diseases like malaria.

5. Apply a permethrin insecticide to clothing and other travel gear for greater protection: Although permethrin clothing treatments are not widely available in Canada, travel health clinics can advise you how to purchase permethrin and pre-treated gear before or during your trip. Permethrin-treated clothing is effective through several washes. Always follow label instructions when using permethrin. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.