I’m a bite prevention expert – here’s how the CLOAK method can stop mozzies ruining your holidays

AN expert has revealed the CLOAK method to prevent mosquitos ravaging you on holiday.

Some people get bitten to shreds when the bugs are around, while others seem to mysteriously avoid them.

But no matter which you are, if you're going to a country swamped with mosquitos, you're best to take precautions to reduce your risk of becoming a feeding ground.

Howard Carter, bite prevention expert and CEO of - a mosquito spray - said: "A lot of mosquitoes zero in on the ears, wrists and ankles because this is where the skin is thinner and blood vessels are nearer the surface.

“[It] is one of the reasons women generally get bitten more than men.

 "If you're suffering badly with mosquitoes constantly buzzing around you, try my CLOAK method for effective bite prevention.”

C – Cover up

It feels over the top, but if you’re going to a particularly warm location, covering up with long sleeves and trousers is your best bet to avoid mosquito bites.

Socks are also important - because the bugs love the ankles.

You’ll feel smug when you’re the only person in your group who hasn’t got bitten.

L – Light coloured clothes 

Howard said light coloured clothes “are strongly advisable”.

Some research claims that mosquitoes are more attracted to dark colours because they use heat sensing to find their next meal - and black absorbs heat from the sun. 

Howard also warned that mosquitoes can bite through clothing - but only if it is tight, according to Fit For Travel.

Therefore, choose light coloured and looser clothes.

O – Odours

Above anything else, mosquitos seek their prey depending on its odour.

Remove any odours - bodily or otherwise - that will attract mozzies.

“Be aware that most toiletries and sunscreens, along with most fabric softeners contain scent,” Howard said.

“Certain kairomones and perfumes are strong attractants.

“It is a good idea to wash with a loofah soap that contains citronella, then spray and use a moisturiser containing citronellol.”

A – Apply spray

Mozzie spray is one of the most vital products to pack in your wash bag if you are going on holiday.

The most effective insect repellent is the ingredient DEET, Fit For Travel says, and a concentration of 20 to 50 per cent is advisable. 

Howard suggested an insect repellent containing lemon eucalyptus (PMD) - a more natural ingredient that is similar to DEET but still recommend by experts.

It needs to be reapplied more than DEET containing products. 

Howard also said: “Spray an insect repellent on and around your back door or your summerhouse door before entering, as mosquitoes often lie in wait on the outside of doors and windows and this simple procedure helps to keep them out."

K – Keep away from stagnant water

Mosquitos like the water and lurk around ponds, lakes and rivers.

Sitting by water for a couple of hours could leave you with dozens of bites.

Mozzies find stagnant water, no matter how shallow, the best place to breed and lay eggs.

Mosquitoes are found everywhere in the world but they thrive most in hot and humid places.

A bite is relatively harmless, albeit very itchy.

But in some countries, there is the risk of getting bitten by a mosquito carrying malaria, dengue fever or yellow fever.

These can have serious consequences.

Mosquitoes which transmit Zika, dengue and chikungunya infections bite predominantly during the daytime and at dusk, while those passing malaria bite at night.

If you are travelling somewhere far, seek advice from your local GP, practice nurse or a travel clinic, ideally four to six weeks in advance of your trip, to get advice, the Government says.