Simply put, if you aren't prepared, these two insects can totally and completely ruin your trip. Mosquito bites usually leave welts that itch for several days. Scratching may result in secondary infections and occasionally the bites cause an allergic reaction or low fever. Alaska has some mosquitoes which winter as adults. They emerge from hibernation before the snow has entirely disappeared but their population reaches its peak in June with a steady decline thereafter.
Mosquitoes are active at twilight and early morning.
A 5 mph wind velocity grounds most mosquitoes thereby reducing the problem. The bite is a most annoying prolonged prick, after which the surrounding skin becomes inflamed, producing a small red spot that itches intermittently. The pest season extends from June through August. Clothing that covers as much of the body as possible gives the best protection. The reaction to bites is usually pronounced and the swelling and itching may last a week or more.