Mosquito protection in Thailand | What’s good to know?

Tips for mosquito protection in Thailand

Thailand is one of the best-known and most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia. And as in many tropical regions, mosquito protection in Thailand is of great importance. This is because mosquitoes are not only a nuisance in these countries, but can also transmit serious diseases such as dengue fever, malaria or Zika virus.

To avoid itchy mosquito bites and possible infections, it is important to be well prepared to ensure a certain level of protection. A high-quality mosquito net and mosquito sprays are part of this. Most of the advice on mosquito protection given here can be applied to other countries in South East Asia such as Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines or Indonesia. Mosquitoes also like to holiday there and can transmit diseases.

Note: all this advice is based on our knowledge and experience. Please seek professional advice on all important matters before travelling. Please talk to your doctor about possible diseases in tropical holiday destinations and any recommended vaccinations. You can always find more information on the website of the Tropical Institute Hamburg.

Why is protection against mosquitoes so important in Thailand?

Not only can mosquitoes get on your nerves, they can also transmit dangerous diseases in Thailand. The diurnal tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), for example, is a vector of dengue fever, which can occur all year round in Thailand.

Malaria is somewhat rarer, but occurs in certain areas in the north and border regions with Laos. The risk of malaria is lower in large cities such as Bangkok or Chiang Mai, but significantly higher in rural areas and especially in the jungle.

The Zika virus and Japanese encephalitis are also mosquito-borne diseases, although the risk is comparatively low.

The risk of being bitten by mosquitoes increases in Thailand, particularly in the rainy season (May to October), as the animals reproduce more quickly in the humid and warm conditions. Comprehensive mosquito protection, especially in the form of mosquito sprays and mosquito nets, is therefore essential when travelling to this country.

Diseases caused by Mosquitoes

There are several mosquito-borne diseases in Thailand. Dengue fever is the most common, while malaria, Zika virus and Japanese encephalitis are less common.

Dengue fever: is mainly transmitted by the tiger mosquito. Symptoms range from fever and rash to joint pain. The risk is particularly high in the rainy season. A vaccination against dengue fever has been authorised in the EU since 2022.

Malaria: The risk of malaria in Thailand is low, but there may be a risk in some remote areas, especially in border regions and forests.