Does anyone know why most insect repellents found nowadays contain 50% DEET?! I always used to get the 33% one when going to India, other places in Asia and also when I went to Africa. Why has the percentage gone high? I I am very wary of it, as in my opinion it's better to use the minimum that can be effective, with it being such a stong chemical and all. Do you think I should still be ok if I get the 33% deet one for Central America, India, Nepal and the Pacific Islands?
Also, I remember I had taken the meningitis vaccine twice when I travelled to Asia but it is not mentioned anymore in the vaccines that one needs to take for most countries. Does anyone still take this vaccine when going to India and Nepal? Not sure if it ever was on the list of the vaccines to be taken when visiting Central America, as this will be my first time in this part of the world.
As for malaria, I don't like to take prevention tabs as I've had too many bad side effects when I tried taking them once, so the last time I went to India 5 years ago, I just carried a pack of 'Malarone' with me, in the case of emergency, which I ended up not using. Don't know if I should do this again and take them if I have any symptoms or not take them with me at all and get them from there ..... will they have the same brands there... should I still look for 'Malarone' if I need to get them or will they be known under a different name?
Thanks a lot for your tips and advice
