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Mozzwise Briefing

Guatemala
Overall Risk: Low

Guatemala has peak mosquito activity during the rainy season from May through October. The Pacific and Atlantic coastal lowlands, the Peten region, and areas below 1,500 meters carry the highest risk. Guatemala City and highland areas have lower but not negligible exposure.

Dengue fever is the primary concern, with significant outbreaks during the wet season. Malaria (P. falciparum and P. vivax) persists in lowland rural areas, particularly in the Peten and northern departments. Chikungunya and Zika have also caused outbreaks.

Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus transmit dengue, chikungunya, and Zika in urban and suburban areas during daylight hours. Anopheles species carry malaria in rural lowlands, biting at night.

Precautions

Use DEET (20%+) or Picaridin-based repellent on exposed skin
Wear light-colored, long-sleeve clothing at dawn and dusk
Sleep under a permethrin-treated mosquito net if no air conditioning
Eliminate standing water near your accommodation
Keep windows and doors closed or screened
Consider antimalarial prophylaxis if malaria is present — consult your doctor
Recommended Protection

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Disease presence data is sourced from WHO, CDC, ECDC, and OpenDengue. This is not medical advice — consult a travel health professional before your trip.

Mosquito Risk in Guatemala | Mozzwise