Malaria is one of the 10 most prevalent and deadly diseases in the world. Between 300 and 500 million clinical cases occur every year with 1.2 to 2.7 million deaths. 90% of these cases occur in sub-Saharan Africa, but Central America is considered a low to moderate risk area. Malaria is a parasitic disease spread by the bite of the Anopheles mosquito, which is active between dusk and dawn. The principal symptoms are fever, malaise, headache, chills and sweats. Prevention of mosquito bites is the best plan, prevention will also prevent other mosquito spread diseases, such as dengue (a daytime biting mosquito), as well as other insect or fly spread diseases.

Minimization of exposure to mosquitoes

◦Mosquito nets preferably impregnated with permethrin-emulsifiable concentrate. Permethrin is an insecticide, not a repellent; is safe, colorless, odorless, and stable, adheres to fabric, survives 5-10 washings, but is not recommended for skin application.

◦Avoid nighttime outside activities.

◦Avoid dark colored clothing, perfume, cologne, and aftershave as these things attract mosquitoes.

◦Cover legs and arms in the evenings. Spraying clothing with Permethrin (Permanone) increases the protection.

◦Use an insecticide aerosol in the room to kill mosquitoes before retiring. (Knock down sprays)

◦Use mosquito repellents. The most effective mosquito repellent is DEET. “Rid” or “Muskol” are commercial preparations containing DEET. When you buy your insect repellent, get one that contains a high concentration of DEET. The DEET in repellents ranges from 35% to 95%. The higher the percentage, the longer lasting the protection.

◦DEET is absorbed through the skin. Preparations containing less than 50% DEET are almost free of side effects. In children the repeated and extensive application of DEET as low as 20% has led to staggers, agitation, tremors, slurred speech, convulsions and death. DEET repellents should be kept away from all plastics, such as cameras, as it will dissolve them.