17 January 2005, 21:09
bullsprigzambia
I am scheduled for a hunt with Swan/Scan in late June/early July in Mumbwa east.
I know there is a problem with tsetse (sp) fly.
How bad is it and what can I do as a preventative?
Sprig
17 January 2005, 21:42
bwanamrmTsetse flies are a boon and a bane to good hunting country. They keep out domestic livestock and let you know you are in the real Africa. They also bite like a red hot needle and can penetrate light clothing with ease! I use a product called Avon's Skin So Soft that is a combination sunscreen and bug repellant and have had excellent results with it. In Tanzania, where the flies were moderate, I had to reapply every hour to hour and a half. In the Zambezi Valley, the area I hunted had a heavy infestation and I had to reapply every 30 to 45 minutes. It won't keep you from being unbitten. The little bastards know exactly where you miss applying the lotion. (watch just above the gaiters or socks and behind the knees) But it will give you some relief and I usually leave my lotion with the PHs at the end of the hunt at their request. Bring plenty, apply liberally and have a good time in Zambia!
17 January 2005, 22:02
butchlocmake sure to wear shirts etc. from hard woven cotton. I wore T shirts in zambia & they chewed me up good. The soft cloth gives them a lice place to land and grab onto. also take some benedryl and calamine loction for the after effects.
17 January 2005, 23:34
bullsprigThanks for the quick responses. I am pleased that something works. On one of the medical sites it said that none of the sprays work for the flys. Does Permithrin sprayed on the cloth help any?
Sprig