Mosquitoes in Saint Barthelemy: Everything You Need to Know for a Peaceful Stay
Complete guide to tropical mosquitoes: species, risks, periods, areas, and all effective protections
Understanding mosquito presence in a tropical island context
Saint Barthelemy, like all Caribbean islands, is home to tropical mosquito populations. However, thanks to the dry climate, constant trade winds, and vector control efforts, the island presents a much more favorable situation than many tropical destinations.
Positive factors
- + Dry climate most of the year
- + Trade winds that disperse mosquitoes
- + Few stagnant water areas
- + Strict health surveillance
- + Active control program
Vigilance periods
- ! Wet season (June-November)
- ! After heavy rains
- ! Dusk and dawn
- ! Dense vegetation areas
- ! Near stagnant water
The good news: with simple and effective precautions, you can fully enjoy your stay without being bothered by mosquitoes. This guide gives you all the keys for optimal protection.
What mosquito species are in Saint Barthelemy?
Two main species of tropical mosquitoes are present on the island
Characteristics
- - Distinctive black and white stripes
- - Small size (4-7mm)
- - Low and silent flight
- - Active mainly during the day
- - Bites mainly ankles and legs
Behavior
Urban mosquito that breeds in small amounts of stagnant water (plant saucers, gutters, tires). Prefers shade and areas sheltered from wind.
Potential vector of dengue, chikungunya, and zika
Characteristics
- - Uniform light brown color
- - Medium size (4-10mm)
- - Audible buzzing flight
- - Active mainly at night
- - Bites all over the body
Behavior
Breeds in dirty stagnant water (septic tanks, drains). More present in urban areas and near homes. Easily enters houses.
Mainly a nuisance but low health risk
When are mosquitoes most active?
Mosquito activity varies greatly according to seasons and weather conditions
- Dawn (6am-9am)
Morning activity peak
- Dusk (5pm-8pm)
Most active period
- Night
Culex active, Aedes at rest
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Each rain creates new larval breeding sites.
St. Barth's constant winds are a major ally against mosquitoes.
- Disperse mosquitoes
- Prevent flight
- Dry out breeding sites
Where are mosquitoes most common in St. Barth?
Mosquito presence varies considerably depending on island areas
Mangroves and wetlands
Grand Cul-de-Sac bay, St-Jean (marshy area), Lorient (low areas)
Dense and shaded vegetation
Colombier (forests), Vitet (lush vegetation), unmaintained tropical gardens
Poorly ventilated urban areas
Gustavia center (narrow streets), dense residential areas, poorly maintained properties
Near water points
Untreated pools, open cisterns, ornamental ponds, abandoned containers
Windy heights
Lurin (heights), Vitet (hilltops), Toiny (hills), areas exposed to trade winds
Arid and dry zones
Saline (arid zone), Gouverneur (exposed), rocky areas without vegetation
Well-maintained hotels and villas
Properties with regular treatment, breeding site elimination, air conditioning and ventilation
Windy seaside
Flamands beach, Colombier, Petit Cul-de-Sac, all areas with constant wind
Practical tip for choosing accommodation
To minimize mosquito-related discomfort, prefer accommodations at higher elevations with good wind exposure, equipped with air conditioning and/or mosquito nets. Reputable establishments generally perform regular preventive treatments. Don't hesitate to ask when booking.
What are the health risks?
Tropical vector-borne diseases exist but remain rare in Saint Barthelemy thanks to active surveillance
Dengue is the most common vector-borne disease in the Caribbean. In St. Barth, sporadic cases may occur, particularly during the rainy season.
Symptoms
- - Sudden high fever
- - Intense headaches
- - Muscle and joint pain
- - Skin rash
- - Significant fatigue
Prevention & treatment
No vaccine available. Prevention involves protection against bites. Consult promptly if symptoms appear. Symptomatic treatment only.
Present in the Caribbean since 2013, chikungunya is less common than dengue but can cause prolonged joint pain.
Symptoms
- - Sudden fever
- - Intense joint pain
- - Headaches
- - Skin rash
- - Pain persisting several months
Prevention & treatment
No vaccine. Protection against bites essential. Medical consultation recommended. Rest, hydration, and pain management.
The Zika virus, which appeared in the Caribbean in 2015-2016, is now very rare. Remains a particular risk for pregnant women.
Warning: Pregnant women
The Zika virus can cause serious fetal malformations. Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should consult their doctor before traveling and rigorously apply protective measures.
Reassuring health situation
Saint Barthelemy benefits from excellent epidemiological surveillance. Cases of vector-borne diseases are very rare compared to other Caribbean islands. The Regional Health Agency monitors the situation daily and intervenes quickly when cases are detected. With simple precautions, risks are minimal.