We are about to do a border crossing in Laos to fulfill visa requirements, and I'm wondering what the current malaria/dengue risk is in Jinghong and south to the border with Laos. We have antimalarials for ourselves and our toddler which we should have started a week ago if we want to take them (oops). I see that the generally opinion of GKers is to not take them, but it IS rainy season. We plan to take a hike down there at some point, so we will be in the woods and/or botanical gardens. We have mosquito repellent of the natural variety that we can take also. No DEET, though I'm sure we could get some if necessary. Thanks.

There was a severe outbreak of dengue in Jinghong last year. No news this year, so hope that's a good sign. Anyways, not much you can do about dengue except prevent bites. I think antimalarials arent needed in Yunnan or aren't worth the effort or possible side effects anyways. Natural repellants need to be applied frequently to stay effective. As to DEET, it isn't that much better, so forget it. I would add mosquito netting to your arsenal, at least for your child. Long pants and sleeves to change into for dinner or nighttime walks.

Good to know. Thanks!

Regards natural repellents.
I use Hua Lu Shui, cheap, available everywhere. Just make sure you get the one with the mosquito image on the bottle. I thinks it is natural. This for me has been 100% effective. The bottle says that it lasts up to 7 hours, I have found it to be effective for longer.

Stupid question: Where and how much do you apply?

It is about 12-15rmb for the larger bottle.
Use it liberally, splash it on.

I splash it on to any exposed skin, including face and ears. It has an alcohol base and so it is also cooling. I also put on my ankles through the socks or any areas of tight clothing as mozzies bite through tight clothes.
Hands and feet are the areas that itch/irritate the most if bitten, and so I concentrate it there at night, so that the bites don't wake me, if bitten.

Thanks :)

or you can try lady gaga's latest perfume. mosquitos absolutely HATE it.

Is that from personal experience ? ;)

I've been in Xishuangbanna for the last month. You really don't need to worry about malaria. There aren't many mosquitoes in the cities. In the jungles, however, they can be quite thick.