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Skin care and wounds
Any wound or insect bite that has been scratched can become infected and can evolve into an infection of the underlying tissue (cellulitis) or surrounding tissue (“erysipelas”).
The risk of severe skin infections is greater in warm climates.
A skin infection causes the skin to become red, swollen and painful and it will feel warm to the touch. General symptoms, such as fever, can develop at a later stage.
Travellers can also suffer from annoying skin problems such as pricky heat, or get infected by scabies or bed bugs.
Prevention
Insect bites
Protect yourself against insect bites.
If necessary, use a cortisone ointment on itchy insect bites to prevent scratching yourself.
Clean the wound
Wash any wounds and insect bites that have been scratched open with soap and water.
Disinfect the wound
Disinfect the wound with a disinfectant, for example povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine for children younger than 12 years. Disinfecting the wound once is usually sufficient. Do not use alcohol swabs for this.
Follow-up care
Keep the wound clean and dry. Cover with clean dressings during the day.
Footwear
Never walk on bare feet, even at the beach.
Pricky heat
Avoid excessive sweating.
Seek coolness.
Wear loose cotton clothing.
Scabies
Use always clean bed linen. Do not share your bed linen or towels.
Bed bugs
Check your bed, bed linen and mattress for signs of bed bugs.
In case of symptoms
Seek medical advice if you suffer any symptoms.
