Are There Mosquitoes in Niue?
Before heading to Niue, you will probably hear scary stories about tropical islands swarming with mosquitoes. No need to panic though, the situation is not that bad in Niue. Although the hot weather and humid wet season are a perfect environment for mosquitoes in Niue, the situation is easily manageable. And in the dry season (June to September) you will be able to enjoy Niue in peace. Plus, there are little to no mosquito-borne diseases going around. So if bitten, you may get an itch but your health won’t be at risk.
With all of the above in mind, we have designed this guide of 10 ways to avoid mosquito bites in Niue!
1. Protect Yourself with Mosquito Repellents
The most obvious thing to do to avoid being bitten is to push back, literally. Push the mosquitoes away with powerful insect repellent! There are actually quite a lot of them on the market but be aware, the cheap chemical ones can be more harmful to your health than the mosquito bite itself. Ingredients like DEET can be pretty nasty, especially when combined with chemicals commonly found in other skin products, like sunscreen and moisturiser. We’ve compiled a list of the 10 Best Natural Insect Repellents for Niue to help you pick so good options for adults and kids alike.
(c) Maxpixel2. Avoid the Wet Season
Mosquitoes love humid and hot weather so during the wet season in Niue, they’re in paradise. While the situation is not unmanageable during the wet season, there is definitely much fewer mosquitoes around during the dry season. So if mosquitoes are a big worry, you may want to target the months of April through to October (the dry season) instead of the months of November through to March (the wet season). Learn more about the weather and climate in Niue in What is the Weather Like in Niue?
(c) niuepocketguide.com3. Don’t Go Out Straight After the Rain
Mosquitoes are most active right after a rainstorm. The increased humidity in the air gives them wings (literally!) so give it a few hours after it has been raining before heading out. In the meantime, you can check out one of the two amazing museums and galleries on the island. We recommend the Taoga Niue Museum. Otherwise, what about grabbing a bite to eat in one of the wonderful eateries around? Check out other rainy day activities in Niue here.
(c) Pixabay4. Don’t Stay Near Stagnant Water
Similarly to the point above, mosquitoes love stagnant water. This is where they lay their eggs. For the single mosquitoes ready to party, this is where the action happens. So if you see a puddle or a bit of stagnant water, choose to sit a bit further to avoid being part of the party…
(c) niuepocketguide.com5. Wear Long-Sleeved Clothing
The science is pretty easy on this one: wear a long-sleeve layer and without exposed skin, you won’t be bitten. This is not really a high-tech solution but it works wonders. In fact, some clothing brands are starting to design clothing with insect repellent technologies integrated into the fabric. For example, ExOfficio offers full spectrum insect protection from mosquitoes to ants, ticks and even flies!
(c) Amazon6. Take Vitamin B
Seafood, eggs, bananas and potatoes are all rich in Vitamin B which, with enough in your bloodstream, does not attract mosquitoes… Or at least that is what the local tales tell. But since the tip is passed from generation to generation, why not jump on the bandwagon? If you feel like a boost, go for some Vitamin B supplements. Of course, ask your doctor in case of doubt.
(c) Pixabay7. Ask for a Mosquito Net
Some accommodation providers will be able to help you have a night free of mosquito bites by providing you with mosquito nets. Some will have them at the ready in the room before you even check-in, while others might just have some on hand if you ask for it. To be honest, we have not experienced bad nights in Niue, but even if it just gives you peace of mind, why not? There are even travel mosquito nets for sale if you want to make sure to have one with you at all times. Check out more things to pack in The Complete Packing List for Niue.
(c) Chris Clogg on Flickr8. Take Antihistamine
If you have any questions about antihistamine, ask your doctor. In short, these pills are a remedy against an allergic reaction. Because of their active ingredients, they are also a great option to prevent bites in the first place. You can find them at any good pharmacy or get them prescribed to you by your GP. Remember, Niue does not have a pharmacy, so brings these to Niue yourself, as recommended in What to Medication to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for Niue.
(c) Pixabay9. If Bitten, Fight the Itch!
When thinking about what to pack in your first aid kit for Niue, we suggest packing a good antiseptic cream. It is particularly helpful to help disinfect and soothe mosquito bites. Keeping on top of your bites is the best way to cope with mosquitoes if you start to get bitten.
(c) Pixabay10. Get Your Vaccines Done
As mentioned above, Niue is not prone to most mosquito-borne diseases. However, getting your vaccines done is always a good idea. It gives you peace of mind and also will prepare you for other trips abroad you might have. Trust us, once you start enjoying the South Pacific, you’ll never want to stop! Make sure to sort out your vaccines with your GP a few weeks before your trips as some vaccines may need to be ordered. Learn more in Do You Need Vaccines to Travel to Niue?
(c) PixabayMore About Health, Safety and Ways to Avoid Mosquito Bites in Niue
That’s it for the ways to avoid mosquito bites in Niue. Get even more travel tips for Niue from The Complete Travel Guide to Niue and the 31 Tips for Travelling in Niue.
