Les vérifications essentielles avant de réserver ou partir à Varadero.
Mosquitoes are common in Cuba, especially after rain, near vegetation, around standing water and during early morning or evening periods. Most bites are only irritating, but travellers should reduce exposure because mosquito-borne illnesses can occur in the Caribbean.
Pack repellent before leaving home
Bring enough insect repellent for the entire trip. Products containing DEET or icaridin are widely used for personal protection when applied according to the label. Do not assume the hotel shop or a local pharmacy will have the preferred product in stock.
- Pack repellent in a sealed plastic bag inside checked luggage and keep a travel-size container where permitted.
- Reapply it after swimming, heavy sweating or according to the product instructions.
- Do not spray directly onto the face; apply it to the hands first.
- Help children apply repellent safely and keep it away from their eyes and hands.
Dress for higher-risk periods
Long, loose clothing provides an additional barrier when mosquitoes are active. Lightweight trousers, socks and a long-sleeved shirt can be useful for evening walks, outdoor shows and excursions near wetlands or dense vegetation.
Travellers planning excursions should include suitable clothing in their Cuba packing list rather than relying only on beachwear.
Reduce mosquitoes around the room
Keep balcony and room doors closed when air conditioning is operating. Avoid leaving balcony doors open with interior lights on, and use a fan when available to improve airflow around the sleeping area. Report torn screens, doors that do not close properly or visible standing water near the room. Avoid leaving wet towels, open drink containers or water-filled items on the balcony.
If mosquitoes enter the room, ask the front desk whether maintenance, an approved treatment or another room is available. Do not apply agricultural or unlabelled chemicals inside the room.
Use extra protection after rain
Mosquito activity often increases after rain and in humid conditions. Apply repellent before sunset instead of waiting until bites begin. This is especially important around gardens, pools, outdoor restaurants, entertainment areas and poorly drained paths.
Dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses
Dengue can occur in Cuba. Travellers cannot identify an infected mosquito by appearance, so bite prevention matters at resorts as well as during excursions. Hotel spraying programs should not replace personal protection.
Recognize symptoms that need medical attention
Fever, severe headache, unusual weakness, persistent vomiting, rash, breathing difficulty, confusion, unusual bleeding or significant body pain require medical assessment. Contact the resort clinic, the insurer’s assistance line or local medical services for guidance.
Symptoms may begin during the trip or after returning home. Tell the healthcare professional about recent travel to Cuba.
Keep a simple mosquito kit
- insect repellent;
- lightweight long clothing;
- after-bite product normally used at home;
- a basic thermometer;
- travel-insurance contact information;
- a list of medications and allergies.
Keep these items accessible rather than buried in checked luggage. The Cuba carry-on essentials guide explains what should remain with you.
Practical checklist
- Bring enough repellent from home.
- Apply it before dawn, dusk and outdoor activities.
- Wear long clothing when mosquito activity is high.
- Keep doors and screens closed.
- Report room or drainage problems quickly.
- Seek medical advice for fever or serious symptoms.
Related health guides
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