Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30
Coronavirus FAQs
Questions about cover for coronavirus? Read our FAQs and find out what our policies can do for you. If you would like to contact us, please note we are currently only available 09:00 to 17:30 Monday to Friday due to reduced operational capacity. Thank you.
11 May 2015 09:40
Scientists claim genes determine how attractive people smell to mosquitoes
Genes could be the reason why some people are targeted by mosquitoes more than others, research suggests.
UK scientists have found that genes determine how attractive a person's body smell is to the biting insects.
It is hoped the findings could lead to better ways of keeping holidaymakers safe from bites and the diseases they can bring.
Malaria risk - err on the side of caution
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease spread by female mosquitoes carrying a parasite called plasmodium. Other common diseases that can be spread include dengue and yellow fever.
Travellers heading to countries where mosquitoes are found - particularly those with tropical climates - should err on the side of caution.
A combination of medications, repellents, sleeping nets and loose clothing can help keep mosquitoes at bay. But the odd mosquito could find a way through these defences, meaning travel insurance is a necessity.
Just one mosquito bite has the potential to put a person in hospital, so it pays to be protected.
Natural repellent
The researchers, led by Dr James Logan from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, analysed 18 identical and 19 non-identical sets of twins. They found identical twin were more similar in their attractiveness to mosquitoes than non-identical twins.
Identical twins share all the same genes, whereas non-identical twins do not. This suggests the mosquito effect is genetically driven. The trait had about the same level of heritability as height and IQ.
In the experiment, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes - which transmit dengue and yellow fever among other diseases - were released into a Y-shaped tube that allowed them to choose between the hands of different study participants.
Some individuals who avoided bites were shown to produce a natural insect repellent that kept them safe. The findings build on previous studies linking body odour to the chances of being attacked by mosquitoes.
09 March 2020
Move over hot cross buns and chocolate eggs, there's a whole world of Easter treats out there. Here are some alternative Easter foods from around the world.
[more...]
Forget egg hunts and bunnies, Easter's done a little bit differently in these corners of the world. Here five alternative Easter celebrations.
28 February 2020
Keep your carbon footprint in check and travel green with our eco-friendly travel tips.
25 February 2020
For true carefree travel, decide on a destination that's kinder to the planet...
20 February 2020
Travel into the future and not just through time-zones, with destinations shaping urban living.
National Anthem Day falls on the 3rd March, so what better excuse is there to delve into into the world of music and motherland?
Discover five alternative places to get down on one knee this leap year.
Two-wheels are better than none. Check out our favourite cities best explored from a saddle.
04 February 2020
Make your phone the perfect travel companion for the new year...
Bohemian boulevards and ornate opera houses await away from the Six Nations action.
Kite Flying Day falls on 8th February. What better time is there to plan your next trip through the skies?
10 February 2020
With Ferris Wheel Day on 14th February, there's never been a better excuse to enjoy a foreign skyline.