There are a few mosquito-delivered illnesses that are an issue in Cuba, but it’s easy enough to take precautions. Just to stress the point: It’s really not a huge concern. But is more something you need to be aware of. So what do you need to know about mosquitoes in Cuba?
Mosquito Breeding Grounds
Mosquitoes in Cuba do most of their breeding in the rainy season. This is because to a mosquito, there is no better place to give birth than in a puddle.
It needs to be a puddle because running water would wash the mosquito eggs away. A lake or large body of water allows the eggs to be eaten by tiny fish. So while any puddle can be a mosquito maternity hospital, it’s worse in the tropics.
Cuba in the rainy season gives mosquitos more puddles than they know what to do with. Hence the rainy season, from which runs from April to November is the peak period for mosquitos in Cuba. But this does not mean that you should avoid the island nation during these months.
The Two Major Mosquito Borne Illnesses
Zika, Chikungunya and Dengue are the three main mosquito-borne diseases found in Cuba. These diseases are all referred to as fevers. This is because they cause a particularly high fever in the first few days of infection.
But if you develop a fever while in Cuba or another subtropical region, it does not necessarily mean that you have been exposed to Zika, Chikungunya, or Dengue. However, if the fever persists and develops into joint pain, you should see a doctor.
Medication can be used to manage the pain caused by these diseases. This medication typically focuses on treating joint pain and keeping the person hydrated.
There is a vaccine for Dengue fever, but not for Zika or Chikungunya. Check with your doctor or health provider for more information.
Mosquitoes Are All Over Cuba!
If that all sounds a little scary, don’t worry it doesn’t need to be!
It is important to note that Cuba, is famously proactive when it comes to fighting tropical diseases. Maintaining public health is part of Havana’s broader socialist ethos, and essential for the tourist industry.
While it’s possible to become infected after being bitten by a mosquito, such transmissions remain quite rare. Just take precautions so that mosquitos in Cuba don’t ruin your time on the island nation.
4 Tips On How to Avoid Mosquitos While in Cuba
- Pack Wisely: While the heat of Cuba means that you won’t be in the mood to cover up, you should have a few long-sleeve shirts and a pair of pants with you. It’s hard to balance these clothes with the heat and humidity. So you just need to make sure that these cover-up clothes are made of lightweight, organic materials. Something like a thin cotton is perfect. If the clothes are too heavy, you might become uncomfortable. And clothes made from synthetic materials can make you sweat too much.
- Pack a Strong Repellent: Take enough mosquito repellent to last for your entire trip. Pick a strong one too. DEET or similar, here is a list put together bt the Canadian government. This is not something you can count on being able to find once you arrive in Cuba.
NB: Repellents like skin moisturizer or sunscreen combined with insect repellent OR wristbands, neckbands and ankle bands that contain repellents WILL NOT be effective.
So when you’re making a list of everything you need to take to Cuba, make sure you include mosquito repellent.
- The Electric Solution: You might want to bring a few of those plug-in mosquito coils to leave on while you sleep. These devices can be highly effective, but like repellent, can be hard to find once you’re actually in Cuba. Don’t forget that you will need to bring an electrical adapter so that you are able to use these coils.
- Don’t use cologne or fragrances!: This is something you should avoid while in rural Cuba. It’s thought that mosquitos can be attracted to the sweet scent and essential oils of the fragrance. You can go without wearing fragrance for a few days.
In Conclusion
We can’t stress this enough: Mosquitoes in Cuba are something you should be aware of, NOT alarmed about.
Remember that if you have any major concerns, it can be smart to have a word with your doctor before you travel to Cuba.