My family is interested in spending 5 weeks in Sri Lanka in late Feb. and March. What are the mosquitoes like this time of year. I am concerned about dengue fever and other mosquito illnesses. I know it was a huge issue this year! Is this time of year fairly free of these buggers? I also have severe reactions to bites and if Mosquitoes are prevalent year round perhaps a different country to travel. But Sri Lanka looks amazing! HELP with understanding bugs this time of year. Thanks
Ella

There are two peak seasons for Dengue transmission in Sri Lanka: one is from October to December; another is from May to July. This does not mean no mosquitoes in February and March.
But first and foremost is going to be insect bite avoidance measures in any case - that is, don't get bitten in the first place.
Use only insect repellents containing DEET.
Insect repellent should be applied to any exposed skin, morning and evening every day
Wear long sleeved tops and long trousers every day.
Mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, so spray an insecticide or repellent on them.
Use insect repellent plug-in diffusers in accommodation every night
Stay in air conditioned accommodation.
Sleep with a mosquito net impregnated with insecticide if you cannot afford AC accommodation.

Thanks. I understand there are two main seasons. I was hoping to understand what the mosquitoes are like outside of these in the “dry” season. Are they still pretty thick or not very noticeable in March? Not a big concern?

I was in SL Feb and March this year and hardly noticed the mossies. A few at night inSomething places so I used one of those plugins if no net. Worst time is an hour or so around dusk.
Generally I don't find them to be very prolific in the dry season. However a day or two rain will bring them out.
Re advice above, all good except don't spray clothes etc with deet. It will eat anything synthetic. Also wash it off your body at night as it is pretty toxic.
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