Mosquitoes in Sicily

[ClaireyFL]

Hi all,

Am on holiday in Sicily, 17 weeks pregnant (first baby), didn't think to put insect repellent on, and now have a few what look like mosquito bites on my leg.

From what I've read you don't need to worry about Zika or Malaria here - but am still feeling very guilty that I didn't put repellent on. Anyone else been in the same boat?

C

No need to worry. You won't be getting malaria or Zika in Sicily any time soon. Just keep an eye to make sure they don't over swell or get too angry and red and hot. Otherwise I'm afraid it's just a case of putting up with the itch.

Honestly don't beat yourself up. I grew up in the Med and live in a high risk mozzie country now and never wear bug spray - or very very rarely. I figure fewer chemicals on your skin the better - even if "natural". You have to weigh risk against benefit and in the Med the risk is so low that it's not a big deal to get a few bites.

Dont worry, you won't get Zika or Malaria from mosquitos in Sicily. If you react badly and want something or the itching or to stop further bites ask in a pharmacy and they can recommend something suitable for pregnancy as some products are not recommended in pregnancy (I think repellents containing eucalyptus oil but I'm not sure).

Thanks very much both. The bites have calmed down now, and so have I ... x