Mosquitoes can spread diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, Zika, dengue, and chikungunya. While some cases are mild, these diseases can be severe and have lasting consequences. Some diseases caused by mosquito bites can be prevented with vaccines or medication, like yellow fever and malaria; however, many cannot, such as Zika and chikungunya. On your trip, avoid mosquito bites to prevent getting sick.
Take Steps to Prevent Mosquito Bites During Your Trip
- Use an EPA-registered insect repellent
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
- Treat clothing and gear with permethrin
- Keep mosquitoes out of your hotel room or lodging
- Sleep under a mosquito net
Visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/avoid-bug-bites for more prevention information.
Disease-Specific Considerations
Dengue Fever
This is a viral infection caused by Flavivirus. Aedes mosquitoes transmit the virus. They bite both during the day and at night. Bloodborne transmission can occur through exposure to blood and infected tissues. Symptoms include headache, nausea, joint aches, muscle pain, pain in the eyes and minor bleeding. High-risk areas include Latin America, Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
CDC: Dengue | Travelers' Health
More information on the disease, endemic regions, treatment, and prevention.
Chikungunya
This is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. They bite both during the day and at night. Bloodborne transmission can occur through exposure to blood and infected tissues. The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain but can include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. High-risk areas include Africa, Asia, the Americas, and islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
CDC: Chikungunya | Travelers' Health
More information on the disease, endemic regions, treatment, and prevention.
Malaria
Malaria is a disease caused by the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. They bite at night and early morning. Malaria is found in many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Central and South America. The most common signs of malaria include shaking, chills, high fever, headache, sweats, body aches, and tiredness. Malaria can be a very serious illness, and if you travel to a country where malaria occurs, you should take precautions to avoid getting sick.
CDC: Malaria | Travelers' Health
More information on who is at risk, medication, and mosquito bite prevention.
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a virus that is spread through mosquito bites. Symptoms take 3–6 days to develop and include fever, chills, headache, backache, and muscle aches. About 15% of people who get yellow fever develop serious illness that can lead to bleeding, shock, organ failure, and sometimes death. Travelers to certain parts of South America and Africa are at risk for yellow fever
CDC: Yellow Fever | Traveler's Health
Yellow Fever Vaccination Clinics in Nebraska
Zika Virus
Zika virus is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, through sex, and from an infected pregnant mother to the fetus. Infection is characterized by fever, headache, joint and muscle aches, and rash. Many infected people may not have symptoms. It may lead to birth defects among infected pregnant women.
CDC: Zika Travel Information | Traveler's Health
Updated information on regions with past or current cases and recommendations for travelers.