Add horses....
as another animal susceptable to West Nile. They seem particularly vulnerable according to news reports in US. Don't know if that strain transmits to humans or not.
Was there not a nasty outbreak of Dengue Fever in Puerto Rico a couple of years back? Now, that's one SERIOUS disease. As pointed out already, skeeters are the vector, so if there's any of them critters flitting about here's a few steps that folks, especially visitors, might consider:
1. Insect repellant, especially at night. Problem is that most of it smells to high heaven and if you're in miniskirts you'll go thru a ton of it. Another problem: it might repel guys along with the insects.
2. In the US many pharmacies and sports shops sell impregnated wrist bracelets that we used to also slip on an ankle [start a new fashion accessory craze - a business opportunity for someone?] since mosquitos like to lurk under dark tables at night.
3. Light colored clothing is recommended.
4. Citronella in whatever form [candles, wrist bracelets, etc] seems to be pretty effective.
Visitors might throw a few items in their suitcase as cheap insurance, justincase.
Best, P
