Personal protection against insect bites is important, not just for prevention of malaria transmission. Insect repellents are part of that protection, together with protective clothing, nets, fans and air conditioning where possible. There are four groups of repellents :-
1. Containing DEET. Examples :- "OFF!", "Repel", and "Jungle Formula". The most used ingredient in insect repellents for over 5 decades, recommended by British National Formulary (bnf.org), of proven effectiveness, safe ( see my post 22 above ). Does have oily feel, causes irritation to eyes, lips and other sensitive areas, is absorbed by skin, can cause skin reactions, damages some plastics and fabrics, strong smell.
2. Containing picaridine. Example :- "Autan". Recommended by World Health Organisation. Doesn't cause skin irritation, doesn't dissolve plastics and fabrics, safe for young children, non oily and almost no smell. May need re-application sooner than 1.
3. Containing citriodiol ( oil of lemon eucalyptus). Example :- "Mosi-Guard". A natural repellent, non-sticky, non-toxic, safer on sensitive skins and for children, harmless to most plastics / fabrics. But more expensive, may need more frequent re-application.
4. Containing permethrin ( from chrysanthemums, or similar manufactured chemicals). Example :- "PreVent Spray". Safe for spraying on fabrics. Doesn't stain and almost never irritates skin.
Associated products such as mosquito coils and citronella candles may help.
Insect bites and stings cause local pain and swelling for which antihistamines or corticosteroid cream bought "over-the-counter" should help ; occasionally there may be an anaphylactic reaction, which is an emergency requiring intramuscular adrenaline - seek medical advice.
While "anything posted in this section is the poster's own opinion ... please seek professional advice", what I have stated here is accurate to the best of my knowledge.