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The best method of preventing filariasis is to prevent being repeatedly bitten by the mosquitoes that carry the disease. Some methods of preventing insect bites include the following:
- limit outdoor activities at night, particularly in rural or jungle areas
- wear long sleeves and pants and avoid dark-colored clothing that attracts mosquitoes
- avoid perfumes and colognes
- treat one or two sets of clothing ahead of time with permethrin (Duramon, Permanone)
- wear DEET insect repellent or, especially for children, try citronella or lemon eucalyptus, to repel insects
- if sleeping in an open area or in a room with poor screens, use a bed net to avoid being bitten while asleep
- use air conditioning, the cooler air makes insects less active
In addition, filariasis can be controlled in highly infested areas by taking ivermectin preventatively before being bitten. Currently, there is no vaccine available, but scientists are working on a preventative vaccine at this time.
— Carol A. Turkington
