Insect Repellent ![[bug]](images/wasp.JPG)
Depending on where you travel insects can either be a nuisance, a health hazard or both. It is known that the best way to avoid the illnesses transmitted by mosquitoes, is to avoid being bit by them. Keeping covered up is the first defense.
There are plenty of options on the market for repellents, from the all-natural herbal types to the full strength DEET. It is recommended that when traveling in areas where insect borne diseases exist that you use a formula which contains DEET. While it is currently the most effective repellent available it has also been know to produce side effects in some persons using it. DEET is absorbed through the skin and should only be used on areas of exposed skin, never under clothing or bedcovers. It should not be used in concentrations higher than 50%. Keep it out of your eyes and be careful what you do with your hands after you apply it (like rubbing your eyes or licking your finger).
The following are a couple of resources for getting information about health concerns while traveling.
Health Information for International Travel (aka 'the yellow book') is sold by the Government Printing Office as document 017-023-00197-3. The cost is $20. Phone orders: 202-512-1800, Fax: 202-512-2250. It is also available on the web at http://www.cdc.gov.
The World Health Organization also publishes a
yellow book, International Travel and Health: Vaccination
Requirements and Health Advice. It is also available on the web at
http://www.who.ch. Hard copy can be ordered by Phone: 518-436-9686, Fax:
518-436-7433. The cost is $15.30 plus postage.
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Contact us at:
women@exploretravel.com
Explorations In Travel, Inc.
1922 River Rd.
Guilford, VT 05301
Telephone: (802) 257-0152
FAX: (802) 257-2784