Trip Preparation - Insect Bite Prevention Mosquitoes are found in every region of the world except Antarctica. Those mosquitoes that transmit malaria and Japanese encephalitis bite mostly at twilight or during the night. Mosquitoes that transmit dengue and yellow fever, on the other hand, are daytime biters. You will want to avoid mosquitoes and biting flies for another reason - insect bites, even without the risk of disease can make you miserable. Bites usually cause localized swelling and itching, and certain bites, such as from black flies, are very painful.
Bites can also become secondarily infected, usually from excessive scratching.
Protecting yourself from insect bites entails more than just applying an insect repellent to your skin. A multi-pronged approach is essential. A Clinician's Guide EPA FAQ's on DEET Remember that not every mosquito or insect carries disease, but just one bite from an infected mosquito or other insect can make you sick.