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Are There Mosquitoes In Jamaica?

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mosquitos_in_jamaica_cdc_govAre There Mosquitoes In Jamaica? | (Photo: cdc.gov)

by Sheree-Anita Shearer | Associate Writer

Fun fact, only two places on the planet are completely mosquito-free, Iceland and Antarctica, which means Jamaica is among the many countries that do have to deal with the insects.

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Are mosquitoes a problem in Jamaica?

From time to time Jamaica has flare-ups of various diseases spread by mosquitoes. The Aedes Aegypti or domestic mosquito is often the cause of the spread. This type of mosquito is quite common in Jamaica.

What type of mosquito is in Jamaica?

There are 74 types of mosquitoes found in Jamaica. But only two of these are vectors, which means only two can transfer diseases from one person to the other.

These two species are the Aedes Aegypti which was mentioned before and the Anopheles mosquito. The Aedes Aegypti are responsible for the spread of dengue fever, Zika virus and chikungunya. The Anopheles transmits malaria.

Where is the Aedes Aegypti mosquito from?

Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes were first found in West Africa. It was able to reach other parts of the world, especially Jamaica and the wider Caribbean region through the centuries-old slave trade.

Does Montego Bay have mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are quite common in Montego Bay especially in the late evening if you are out and about.

What diseases do mosquitoes carry in Jamaica?

Vector-borne diseases spread by mosquitos include:

  • Malaria
  • Dengue fever
  • Chikungunya
  • Zika Virus

Malaria, Chikungunya and the Zika virus are no longer common in Jamaica. But Dengue Fever is often an issue on the island.

Common Symptoms of Diseases Spread By Mosquitoes

  • Fever
  • Rash which may be itchy
  • Red eye
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Joint pains
  • Weakness
  • Swollen lower limbs
  • Pain behind the eyes
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal Pain

Most of the diseases listed above share similar symptoms. If you experience one or more of these symptoms visit the nearest doctor or health facility.

Do you need bug spray in Jamaica?

Yes, you will. You should bring insect repellent with at least 30% DEET for your trip.

Also, it is advised that you wear light colours and the mosquitoes are attracted to darker colours.

If you will be out in the evenings, you could try wearing clothes that cover your legs. But we know it gets quite hot in Jamaica, so your repellent should be good.

How to get rid of Mosquito Breeding Sites

Because we are well aware of the dangers of mosquitoes, no effort is spared in searching for and destroying potential breeding sites in Jamaica.

These are some of the methods implemented:

Open containers are a haven for mosquitoes, so great care is taken to ensure all open containers that may catch water, no matter how small are removed. We are advised to punch holes in cans and bottles before discarding them are well.

Containers that are currently empty but will be used again at some point should be turned over until the time comes.
AC units are known to collect stagnant water; ensure that the AC’s drain is free of water at all times.
Clean clogged drains as soon as possible as this is a potential breeding ground for mosquitoes as well.

Most accommodations will have very stringent cleaning systems to avoid guests being constantly bothered by insects. In addition to applying the methods listed above many will also have automatic insect repellent dispensers around the property.

Is It mosquito season in Jamaica?

There is no mosquito season for us in Jamaica, the worrisome creatures are here year-round. I would say though during the wet months from June to November mosquitoes are a little more prevalent.

So in a word, yes, mosquitoes are found here on the island but we are dedicated to preventing them from spreading diseases. As such there are even media campaigns surrounding the prevention of mosquito breeding.

However, it is also advisable to take along your preferred insect repellant or pick up one when you get here.

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References & Sources For Are There Mosquitoes In Jamaica?

  1. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. 2022. Mosquitoes. [online] Available at: [Accessed 29 September 2022].
  2. Jis.gov.jm. 2022. Reducing Mosquito-Borne Illnesses – Jamaica Information Service. [online] Available at: [Accessed 29 September 2022].

Are There Mosquitos In Jamaica? | Written: October 5, 2022

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