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 heat and humidity create the perfect environment for mosquitoes, the situation is easily manageable. And in the dry season (May to October), mosquitos are much less of a problem. What’s more, mosquito-borne diseases are relatively rare in Niue. So if bitten, you may get an itch but your health is unlikely to be at risk.
With all of the above in mind, we have designed this guide to different 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! While there are a lot of insect repellents on the market, be aware that the cheap chemical ones can be more harmful to your health than the mosquito bite itself. Ingredients in high concentrations of 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 natural-yet-effective options for adults and kids alike.
© NiuePocketGuide.com2. 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 technology integrated into the fabric. For example, ExOfficio offers full spectrum insect protection from mosquitoes, ants, ticks and even flies!
© NiuePocketGuide.com3. Ask for a Mosquito Net
Most accommodation providers have mosquito nets or insect screens on the windows. Needless to say, you should make sure you use them. If the mosquito net or screen has holes, ask for a replacement. If you’re staying somewhere where you suspect there are no mosquito nets available, bring your own travel mosquito net. Check out more things to pack in our Niue Packing List.
© NiuePocketGuide.com4. Use Your Accommodation’s Mosquito Kit
Speaking of accommodation, some accommodations in Niue have an in-room mosquito kit so you can enjoy the outdoor portions of your home-away-from-home without getting munched on. These kits usually consist of high-strength mosquito repellent and/or mosquito coils. If they have them; might as well use them (unless you’ve brought your own natural insect repellent which is likely to be better for you).
© NiuePocketGuide.com5. 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 are definitely much fewer mosquitoes around during the dry season. So if mosquitoes are a big worry, you may want to target the months of May through to October (the dry season) instead of the months of November through to April (the wet season). Learn more about the weather and climate in Niue in What is the Weather Like in Niue?
(c) niuepocketguide.com6. 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 the museum or art gallery in Alofi. Otherwise, what about grabbing a bite to eat in one of the wonderful eateries around? Check out other rainy day activities in the 10 Things to Do in Niue on a Rainy Day.
© NiuePocketGuide.com7. 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.com8. 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, start taking Vitamin B supplements a month before your trip. Of course, ask your doctor in case of doubt. For more pills to pop, check out the What Medication to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for Niue.
(c) Pixabay9. Take Antihistamine
If you have any questions about antihistamines, 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 bring these to Niue yourself, as recommended in What to Medication to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for Niue.
© NiuePocketGuide.com10. 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) PixabayMore About Health, Safety and Ways to Avoid Mosquito Bites in Niue
That’s it for the ways to avoid mosquito bites in Niue. Nevertheless, we still have plenty of tips to keep yourself healthy while exploring Niue. Check out these tips:
- How to Stay Safe in Niue
- 10 Best Eco-Friendly Sunscreens for Niue
- Is the Water Safe to Drink in Niue?
Get even more travel tips for Niue from The Complete Travel Guide to Niue and the 31 Tips for Travelling in Niue.
