Preventing Mosquito Bites Is More Than Itch Relief—It’s the First Step to Protecting Your Health

 

What exactly is “Chikungunya fever,” which has been appearing frequently in the news lately? It turns out to be an acute infectious disease caused by the chikungunya virus and transmitted through mosquito bites. The name comes from the Makonde language of Africa, meaning “to become contorted,” referring to how patients bend over from severe joint pain. Although Hong Kong has recorded only one imported case so far (a 12-year-old boy who had been to Foshan), the Centre for Health Protection has repeatedly warned that the risk of both imported cases and local transmission in the city is quite high.

 

 

🔍 Chikungunya Fever: Symptoms, Transmission, and Management

1. Key Symptoms

Patients typically develop symptoms 3–8 days (up to 12 days) after being bitten by an infected mosquito:

•             Sudden high fever (above 39 °C)

•             Severe joint pain, especially in wrists, fingers, and ankles

•             Muscle aches, headache, and nausea

•             Rash appearing after fever onset

Most recover within days, but complications affecting the eyes, heart, or nervous system can occur. Newborns, older adults, and those with chronic conditions face higher risk. Around 30–40 % of patients may suffer persistent joint pain for months or even years, impacting quality of life.

 

2. How It Spreads

Although Hong Kong lacks the primary vector Aedes aegypti, the locally common Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito) can transmit chikungunya virus. These mosquitoes bite during daytime, peaking at dawn and dusk. When an infected mosquito feeds on a healthy person, it passes on the virus. In rare cases, a pregnant mother can transmit it to her newborn at birth.

3. Management Strategies

No specific antiviral treatment exists. Care focuses on symptom relief:

•             Fever reduction and pain relief (e.g., paracetamol)

•             Hydration and rest

•             Physical therapy or anti-inflammatory drugs for chronic joint pain

⚠️ Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce bleeding risks.

 

🛡️ Prevention Is Key: From Environment to Personal Protection

The Centre for Health Protection & Health experts agree: mosquito control is the only effective way to interrupt transmission.

 

Environmental Measures

•             Inspect and empty water-holding containers weekly (plant saucers, AC drip trays, discarded bottles)

•             Install window and door screens; use mosquito nets (especially for infants)

•             Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk

 

Personal Protection Principles

1.           Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing to minimize exposed skin

2.           Apply EPA-registered insect repellent to skin and clothing

3.           Skip perfumes and scented products that attract mosquitoes

 

Post-Travel Health Tips

•             After visiting areas with outbreaks, continue repellent use for 14 days

•             If fever, joint pain, or rash develop, seek medical care and disclose travel history

 

🌿 Gentle Yet Effective: Mosquito Protection for Sensitive Skin, Pregnant Women, and Children

 

 

Common repellents often contain high-strength chemicals that irritate delicate skin. Infants, children, and pregnant women need extra caution.

Miss Fabulous Sensitive Skin Mosquito Repellent Series offers peace of mind for the whole family:

•             Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers → Alcohol-free, hypoallergenic formula with DEET content within the Department of Health’s safe limit (≤ 30 %)

•          Infants (6 months+) → Child-safe DEET concentration (≤ 10 %) plus natural aloe vera for soothing and hydration

•          Sensitive skin sufferers → Dermatologically tested by Dermatest in Germany; free of parabens and fragrances

 

🦟 Mosquito Bite Itch Relief Hero

German Emcur Insect Bite Immediate Relief Gel Immediate Relief Gel harnesses plantain leaf extract and aloe vera leaf juice powder to:

•          Instantly soothe itching

•          Reduce swelling and prevent scars from scratching

•          Guarantee safety with Dermatest certification

•          Be gentle enough for infants, pregnant women, and sensitive skin

Learn more about Emcur Insect Bite Immediate Relief Gel (20 ml) ⬇

https://www.miss-fabulous.com/zh-hant/products/emcur-insect-bite-immediate-relief-gel-20ml

 

 

Did you know?

The Department of Health recommends up to 30 % DEET for children aged 2 months and older when visiting high-risk areas. For daily protection, a lower-strength formula is the safer choice for young ones.

 

💝 Health is priceless

Although chikungunya fever is rarely fatal, it can cause long-term joint pain. Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is an act of love for you and your family. This summer, choose safe, effective repellents and itch relief products to build your gentle shield against chikungunya threats.

 

Explore Miss Fabulous mosquito protection and itch relief products now: 

https://www.miss-fabulous.com/zh-hant/categories/anti-bug--itch-relief

 

📌 Sources

 

- Hong Kong Centre for Health Protection: https://www.chp.gov.hk/tc/healthtopics/content/24/6122.html

 

- Hong Kong SAR Government News: 

  - https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202508/02/P2025080200778.htm

 

  - https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202507/16/P2025071600754.htm

 

- Chongqing CDC: https://www.cqcdc.org/index.php?a=shows&catid=226&id=3564