Bites and stings in the Top End and how to avoid them

Abstract

The Top End of Australia is home to plenty of creatures such as mosquitoes, biting midges, and a wide range of other insects that can leave locals and visitors alike with some unwelcome pain or discomfort, as well as possibly contracting an insect borne disease. Faced with the daunting array of biting insects, many people often ask, “what is the health risk of this or that insect, what is the best way to protect against the bites and stings, what repellent is the best, or even do sand flies really urinate on your skin?” This introduction to the various culprits and the range of ways to protect yourself will hopefully help make your life in the Top End a bit less painful and safer.