As we move into hurricane season, we can expect an increase of rain—and with that rain comes mosquitoes. Although diseases carried by mosquitoes such as Dengue and Chikungunya are not a huge threat in the Virgin Islands, it is wise to be aware of how to lower your chances of contracting one of these unwanted illnesses, or, if anything, be knowledgeable on how to deter the annoying pests.
The culprits of our disdain are female mosquitoes, who rely on protein from blood to develop their eggs. Many mosquito species feed at dusk and dawn, but those that are more persistent will continue to feed throughout the daytime. When a mosquito “bites” you, they will inject saliva that contains blood thinning enzymes. Our bodies target these foreign enzymes and attack, causing a mild allergic reaction that usually only lasts for about 24 hours. Mosquitoes are attracted to a few different things: body heat, bright colors; perfumes, colognes, and lotions that contain folic acid; and carbon dioxide, which they can detect on our breath from hundreds of feet away. To avoid becoming a mosquito’s meal, wear thin, light-colored clothing that traps little body heat, and avoid wearing fragrances especially if you plan on going for an early-morning or evening walk along one of St. John’s beautiful beaches.
In regards to our CO2 emissions, what can we do? Stop breathing? If you’re desperate enough, go ahead and give it a try. For practicality though, citronella candles work well if you’re planning on sitting out on your villa porch during a particularly buggy hour. The citronella oil will mask your CO2 emissions, giving you somewhat of an invisibility cloak that protects you from the mosquitoes. Another option to deter the pests is DEET, which mosquitoes despise the scent of. A healthier alternative to DEET would be Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus; it smells good and it blocks the sensory receptors of the mosquitoes so that they cannot locate you as easily.
With this information you should be well prepared for your vacation on St. John—without these insects being a nuisance.