Unfortunately, people suffer from mosquito bites on Curaçao all year round. In the rainy season, there are more mosquitoes than during the dry period, but unfortunately, we cannot escape them. We have different types of mosquitoes in Curaçao, but the tiger mosquito is the most common. In recent years, this mosquito has sadly spread many diseases on the island, such as Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika. In 2019, the epidemics surrounding most of these diseases ended. In the beginning of 2024 Curaçao experienced another wave of Dengue disease.
What can you do to prevent getting bitten by mosquitoes?
First of all, it’s good to know where you can find mosquitoes. They are attracted to stagnant water, dark and warm areas, and places where there is little to no wind. In addition, wearing covered clothing and using repellent spray, such as DEET, can make a big difference in repelling mosquitoes. We recommend using Care Plus anti-mosquito products, which are available at Porto Medico, pharmacies, and local supermarkets. You can always contact MedPoint for more information. Sleeping under a mosquito net and using air conditioning is also a great way to prevent mosquito bites, as they are less active in cold air.
The supermarkets in Curaçao also sell various other products to repel mosquitoes, such as citronella candles and coils that release a substance that mosquitoes dislike.
Help, I’ve been bitten by a mosquito, now what?
Sometimes mosquito bites can continue to itch for days or even weeks and as soon as you start scratching, the symptoms often worsen. There are many theories and remedies that are recommended for relief. First of all, it is important not to scratch the bite, which of course is easier said than done. A wet compress or cooling pack can feel soothing, while ointments that include menthol, Aloe Vera, or calendula can help against skin irritation.
If the symptoms do not go away or other reactions occur, please feel free to contact our doctors.
Half-way through 2024 the dengue epidemic seems to have subsided. However, if you are experiencing symptoms of general malaise, fever, body pains, and you are worried it might be a mosquito-born disease, please feel free to contact MedPoint for a consultation.