Buzz Off, Mosquitoes! Protecting Your Health at Home and Abroad
Warm weather and sunny skies mean more time outdoors — whether you’re relaxing in your backyard or jetting off on a tropical escape. But with the return of mosquito season comes a rise in the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, both in Ottawa and around the world.
At Destinations Travel Clinic, we’re here to help you stay safe from itchy bites and serious illness — wherever your summer plans take you.
Why Mosquitoes Matter for Your Health
Mosquitoes aren’t just a nuisance — they’re potential carriers of viruses that can have serious health consequences. In Ottawa and throughout Ontario, public health officials are warning residents about the increasing risks of:
- West Nile Virus (WNV): Common in urban environments, WNV can cause flu-like symptoms or, in severe cases, neurological complications.
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV): Rare but dangerous, EEEV can lead to brain inflammation and has a high fatality rate in severe cases.
But the threat doesn’t end at your doorstep. International travel can expose you to even more mosquito-borne illnesses, including:
- Dengue fever
- Chikungunya
- Zika virus
- Malaria
Each of these diseases is transmitted by different mosquito species in tropical and subtropical regions.
How to Stay Protected — Because your health doesn’t take a vacation-even when you do
At Home
- Use insect repellent with DEET or icaridin, approved by Health Canada.
- Dress smart: Light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing can prevent bites.
- Mosquito-proof your home by installing and maintaining window and door screens.
- Remove standing water weekly from places like birdbaths, flowerpots, and buckets to prevent breeding.
On Vacation
- Pack repellent and reapply regularly, especially in humid climates.
- Sleep smart: Use bed nets when staying in rural or screened-in accommodations.
- Book a travel consultation before your trip to find out if you need vaccines, malaria prevention, or specific insect precautions for your destination.
How Destinations Travel Clinic Can Help
We make mosquito protection easy — no matter where you’re headed.
Stop by Destinations Travel Clinic to learn about:
- Health Canada–approved mosquito repellents (DEET and icaridin)
- After-bite relief products to ease itching and irritation
- Travel consultations with expert advice and preventive care tailored to your itinerary
Whether you’re hiking in Gatineau Park or exploring the Amazon, we’ll make sure you’re covered — literally.
Let’s Make It a Healthy Trip
Protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquito-borne illness this season. Visit Destinations Travel Clinic in Ottawa or shop online for trusted protection and travel health support.
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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
