5 Best Mosquito Repellents to Combat the New Chinese Chikungunya Virus Outbreak

Experts Agree that the Virus Will Probably Make its Way to America

The 2025 chikungunya outbreak in China's Guangdong province, particularly Foshan, has reported over 7,000 cases, driven by Aedes mosquitoes thriving in warm, wet conditions. This mosquito-borne illness causes severe joint pain, fever, and fatigue, with no vaccine available in China. Prevention is key, especially for travelers or residents in affected areas.

In this guide, we'll cover five top repellents based on efficacy, safety, and real-user feedback, incorporating Amazon bullet points, customer reviews, pros, and cons. These options target Aedes mosquitoes, active during the day, and align with CDC recommendations for EPA-approved products.  Remember always to consult a medical professional before purchasing or using any product or medication.  This article, like all my articles, is for informational purposes only, to help you in your search for health and wellness.  I am not giving medical or health advice!  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Having said that, I’ve thoroughly researched these products, and my information is supported by actual customer reviews on each product.

1. FIRST OF 5 BEST MOSQUITO REPELLANTS: Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent

This EPA-approved picaridin spray offers up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, disrupting their sense of smell without the downsides of DEET. You can get two 4-oz bottles for under $20.00. 4.5 overall stars on Amazon

Amazon Bullet Points:

• Safe for use on the whole family, long-lasting insect and tick repellent spray deters a wide variety of pests -- up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks.

• Non-greasy, fragrance free, odorless; dries quickly and won't damage plastics or synthetic coatings — safe for use on clothing, backpacks, watches, sunglasses, fishing line, firearm finishes, and more.

• Fragrance-free topical insect repellent with 20% Picaridin — more effective at repelling biting flies than DEET; repels disease-spreading ticks (Lyme, tick-borne encephalitis) and mosquitoes (West Nile, Dengue, and Zika viruses), chiggers, and more.

Customer Reviews:

• "This is the best mosquito repellant. We live in an area where the mosquitos are numerous and mean! This is the only repellant we have found that actually repels them. You can see them buzzing all around you, but they never touch you. It lasts for hours, too." (5 stars)

• "Top-rated bug repellent by WireCutter/New York Times; maximize protection by pairing with Sawyer Permethrin spray for clothing and gear." (5 stars)

• "Sawyer Picaridin repellent is praised by organizations like Consumer Reports and the New York Times WireCutter for its effective, comfortable protection." (4.5 stars)

Pros: Long-lasting (up to 14 hours in lotion form), non-irritating, safe for kids and adults, versatile for skin and gear. Cons: Smaller bottle may require frequent repurchases for families; dual cap can be fiddly.

Available in China via online platforms; ideal for Guangdong travel. Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4m8XQvX

2. Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent (25% DEET)

A gold-standard DEET option since 1957, providing 4-8 hours of protection against Aedes mosquitoes at 20-30% concentration. Extremely inexpensive, usually around $7.00 per 4-oz bottle. 4.6 overall stars on Amazon.

Amazon Bullet Points:

• PROTECTS UP TO 10 HOURS: Formula contains 25 percent DEET.

• SWEAT RESISTANT: Won't sweat off – lets you be active in the outdoors even in warm, humid conditions.

• REPELS MOSQUITOES, TICKS, GNATS, BITING FLIES, CHIGGERS & FLEAS: Create a barrier against annoying bugs that can spoil the outdoors.

• REPELS A VARIETY OF MOSQUITOES: Effective against mosquitoes that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses.

Customer Reviews:

• "This is the best spray we have found. It works 100% of the time. Will keep buying as long as it is made!" (5 stars)

• "No complaints about the effectiveness of the spray. It works as well, or better, than other similar DEET-based products." (4 stars)

• "Cutter Backwoods Dry, with its even aerosol spray and locking cap, is the best DEET repellent we’ve found." (5 stars)

Pros: Sweat-resistant, long-lasting in humid conditions like Guangdong, affordable and widely available. Cons: Mild chemical smell, potential for rare neurotoxicity with misuse; not ideal for sensitive skin.

Locally available in China as Green Jungle alternative. Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4fs7BCH

3. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent (30% OLE)

A naturally derived CDC-approved option offering up to 7 hours of protection, similar to low-DEET formulas. Another inexpensive product. Retails at a little more than $7.00. 4.4 overall Stars on Amazon.

Amazon Bullet Points:

• Repels mosquitoes that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses.

• 30% OIL OF LEMON EUCALYPTUS. DEET-free alternative* *Not a safety claim.

• REPELS MOSQUITOES FOR UP TO 6 HOURS: This repellent keeps you and your family protected for hours, so the fun doesn't have to end.

• REFRESHING SCENT: This DEET-free personal repellent leaves you with a cool, refreshing scent so you don't have to put up with the usual bug spray smell.

Customer Reviews:

• "Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, Best-performing DEET-free option in Consumer Reports’ tests, offering 7+ hours of protection. Light, non-greasy, with a crisp scent." (5 stars)

• "We have pterodactyl skeeters... could not sit on the open porch at all until I purchased this product. I seen a few but they never came close enough to bite." (5 stars)

• "After testing over 25 spray repellents, we’ve concluded that... oil of lemon eucalyptus repellents tend to provide around 3 or 4 hours of protection." (4 stars)

Pros: DEET-free, pleasant scent, safe for kids over 3, effective in low-bug areas. Cons: May irritate sensitive skin, shorter duration in high-density zones like Foshan; not for under 3s.

Find online in China via pharmacies. Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/45in1X3

Before I continue, I hope you'll check out my new book on health and longevity, full of cutting-edge, current science about lifespan and healthspan. It's a great read and it's already getting excellent reviews. Buy it here on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4lbaHw9

4. Sawyer Permethrin Fabric Treatment

Apply to clothing and gear for up to two weeks of protection against Aedes mosquitoes, combining with skin repellents for superior defense. You can get 2 24-oz bottles, enough to spray clothing, tent, etc. for around $23.00. 4.6 Stars on Amazon.

Amazon Bullet Points:

• Repels AND kills ticks, mosquitoes & other biting insects.

• Spray 6-8 inches away for about 30 seconds, let dry, enjoy 6 weeks or 6 washings of protection.

• It does not harm any fabrics or finishes and can be used to treat seat covers, dog beds, kennels, and other fabrics.

• Provides Long Lasting Protection: One treatment on Clothing, on Nets and or Bed Nets Lasts 6 Weeks.

Customer Reviews:

• "I highly recommend this product for clothing treatment to prevent tick bites." (5 stars)

• "Does a great job keeping the ticks away for a reasonable price." (4.5 stars)

• "Sawyer Permethrin Fabric Treatment: Easy-to-use trigger spray, effective for clothing, tents, and nets. Ideal for travelers to high-risk areas." (5 stars)

Pros: Long-lasting (up to 6 weeks/6 washes), kills on contact, safe for gear, no direct skin application. Cons: Toxic to cats when wet; requires drying time; not for skin.

Available online in major Chinese cities. Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UiSguM

5. Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller

Creates a 20-foot mosquito-free zone for outdoor areas, ideal for patios or campsites in chikungunya hotspots.  The better model is lighted and retails for $59.99 but other models are closer to $30.00.  4.0 Stars on Amazon.

Amazon Bullet Points:

• MOSQUITO PROTECTION THAT WORKS: Thermacell effectively keeps mosquitoes up to 20FT away. Works fast, get max protection in 15 minutes. Easy to use.

• REPEL MOSQUITOES IN AIR, NOT ON YOUR SKIN: Repel mosquitoes without DEET sprays or lotions on your skin. Long lasting repellent cartridges are easy to replace. Scent-free, no smoke, no flames.

• EFFECTIVE 20FT ZONE TECHNOLOGY: Engineered to precisely diffuse repellent, creating a 20-foot zone of mosquito protection.

Customer Reviews:

• "This is the perfect product for my family. We go hunting, camping, fishing, hiking, all the things and love to bring it with us. It repels mosquitos perfectly." (5 stars)

• "We’ve long been fans of Thermacell’s mosquito-shield technology because it actually works." (5 stars)

• "After testing it for several weeks on my patio this spring... the EL55’s claim to protect a 20-foot zone with EPA-reviewed repellent holds true." (4.5 stars)

Pros: No skin application, rechargeable (5.5 hours), scent-free, portable for travel. Cons: Less effective in wind; refills needed; higher initial cost.

Complements nets for sleeping in Foshan. Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/46HjRNv

BONUS SECTION - THREE OTHER GREAT ITEMS THAT REPEL MOSQUITOS

1. DynaTrap DT2030SR Extra Large Mosquito Trap

This advanced electronic trap uses UV light and a titanium dioxide coating to produce CO2, mimicking human breath to attract and trap mosquitoes and other flying pests over up to 1 acre. By reducing mosquito populations, it helps prevent bites that can transmit diseases like chikungunya, West Nile, or Zika, promoting general health through safer outdoor environments for physical activity, relaxation, and family time without chemical exposure. Lists at $114.99 but there are less expensive DynaTrap models on Amazon too. 4.1 Stars Overall on Amazon.

Amazon Bullet Points:

·       2-WAY PROTECTION: The UV-LED light attracts insects, while the whisper-quiet fan pulls them into the mosquito trap basket, providing comprehensive mosquito killer outdoor and flying insect trap

·       LARGE COVERAGE: This outdoor mosquito control protects up to a 1-acre area by disrupting mosquito breeding cycles, making it an ideal mosquito trap for large yards or gardens

·       EASY MAINTENANCE: This bug catcher offers effortless use with touch-button basket emptying. The outdoor fly trap features a long-lasting LED bulb that rarely needs replacement

·       DURABLE DESIGN: Our fly trap outdoor boasts weather-resistant construction, allowing continuous use as an outdoor fly trap and insect trap in varied conditions throughout the season

·       DISCREET AND QUIET: The sleek black design of the backyard mosquito control blends with your décor, and the quiet operation of the mosquito killer outdoor won't be noticed

Customer Reviews for DynaTrap Mosquito Traps:  4.1 Overall Rating

• "This trap works great! We've noticed a significant reduction in mosquitoes around our yard. No more bites during BBQs." (5 stars)

• "Caught tons of bugs in the first week. Quiet and easy to empty. Best investment for our outdoor space." (4.5 stars)

• "Effective but the fan can get clogged if not cleaned regularly. Still, far better than sprays." (4 stars)

Pros: Covers large areas (up to 1 acre), quiet operation, no chemicals or odors, durable for all-weather use, safe for children and pets as it doesn't use zappers that could harm them. Cons: Requires electricity and occasional cleaning of the basket, may attract beneficial insects like bees, higher initial cost compared to basic zappers.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3HkzgJl

2. Biogents Mosquitaire CO2 Mosquito Trap - Sweetscent Mosquito Bait & CO2 Set - Effective Against All Species - Patio & Outdoor Mosquito Trap

This high-end trap uses CO2 to lure and capture mosquitoes over large areas, ideal for backyards or patios. It combats pests by interrupting breeding cycles, reducing overall populations and disease transmission risks, while promoting health by enabling bug-free outdoor exercise, gardening, or social gatherings, which support physical and mental well-being.  This retails at $299.00 and gets 4.2 stars overall, which is much higher actually than other products in this class.

Amazon Bullet Points:

·       Effective Control: This CO2 trap mosquito solution provides effective mosquito control year-round, reducing biting pressure and mosquito populations. By using visual cues, airflow, and CO2, it captures all types of hungry mosquitoes without creating chemical resistance, ensuring long-term protection

·       CO2 Functionality: This CO2 mosquito trap outdoor package includes a powerful carbon dioxide emitter, making it highly effective against all bloodsucking mosquitoes. Simply attach the valve to your CO2 tank (not included), set the regulator to release 500 grams daily, and enjoy reliable mosquito control.

·       Versatile Defense: Whether you're dealing with common mosquitoes, the dengue-carrying Aedes, or the Asian tiger mosquito, the biogents mosquito trap covers all bases. This versatile mosquito co2 trap outdoor helps combat mosquito-borne diseases, providing peace of mind with its broad-spectrum effectiveness.

·       Outdoor Protection: Our mosquito trap outdoor CO2 solution is an electrically operated device designed for gardens and outdoor spaces. It provides long-term protection from mosquito bites without the need for spraying or zapping. Ideal for homes, patios, gardens, and campsites, it offers a modern, hassle-free approach to mosquito control.

·       Package Includes: This mosquito traps package includes everything you need for effective mosquito management: 1 BG-Mosquitaire trap with funnel, 1 CO2 emitter, 1 BG-Sweetscent mosquito lure (lasting up to 2 months), 1 outdoor power supply unit (12V), 2 catch bags, 1 funnel net, and 1 extension cord (10 m). This combination enhances catch rates by capturing all types of mosquitoes before they bite.

Customer Reviews:

• " Caught around 150 mosquitos in our yard. We used the co2 attachment. Got a co2 tank at a local brewer supply store. Most importantly, this trap did not kill any non-mosquitos like moths or bees. Now our yard is free of mosquitos and we can sit outside without being bit” (5 stars)

• " I am an engineer and I like gadgets, although this wasn’t a cheap one. But I thought the idea was reasonable. I set it up according to the instructions and it does work. Could it work a bit better? Maybe - but my experience with mosquito traps is limited. I just know I want to avoid zapping everything in sight. The Biogents is very selective however, and that is good. My wife “bugged’ me enough to do something about the mosquitoes and she is happy." (4 stars)

• " Excellent system. Made a huge difference for our yard in a wet wooded area." (5 stars)

Pros: The Biogents Mosquitaire CO2 Mosquito Trap is highly effective against all mosquito species, reduces populations long-term without pesticides, is eco-friendly and safe for pets and children, backed by scientific research, low-maintenance with quiet operation, customizable with accessories, and praised by users for noticeable bite reductions.

Cons: It requires a separate CO2 tank with ongoing refill costs, depends on precise placement for optimal results, covers only about 1/4 acre necessitating multiple units for larger areas, involves some setup and maintenance challenges like sealing to prevent leaks, needs electricity, and may show variable effectiveness over time or seasons.  Buy on Amazon:  https://amzn.to/45bhrFS

3. Flowtron Bug Zapper, 1-1/2 Acre of Outdoor Coverage with Powerful 80W Bulb & 5600V Instant Killing Grid, Electric Insect, Fly & Mosquito Zapper, Made in The USA

A powerful UV zapper that lures mosquitoes and pests with black light and octenol attractant, then eliminates them with a high-voltage grid. It promotes general health by minimizing exposure to disease-carrying insects, allowing for healthier outdoor lifestyles like evening walks or playtime, and is safe for use around children and pets when placed out of reach.  It retails at $99.99 and gets 4.5 overall Stars on Amazon.

Amazon Bullet Points:

·       THE MARKET’S MOST POWERFUL INSECT KILLER | High Quality Electronic Bug Zapper Handles Your Property’s Flying & Biting Pest Problem Via High-Intensity UV Black Light, Powerful Octenol Mosquito Attractant [30-Day Cartridges Included] & Supercharged 5600-Volt Instant Kill Grid | Just Hang the Lantern on Your Property to Lure & Eliminate Thousands of Flies, Gnats, Beetles, Moths & Most Mosquito Species for Pennies a Day

·       2 HIGHLY EFFECTIVE METHODS OF ATTRACTION | Patented 2-in-1 Design Attracts & Eliminates Twice as Many Bugs as Competitors by Utilizing Multiple Luring Techniques! Watch as the Lantern Draws in Flying Pests with [2] of Our Powerful 40W Ultraviolet Light Bulbs PLUS [2] Liquid Octenol Cartridges | When Warmed & Vaporized by the UV Lamp, Octenol Mimics Ruminant Animals’ Breath/Odor for Maximum Catch & Kill | Covers 1 ½ Acre Wooded Areas, Backyard, Patio, Deck, Porch & Farm

·       HIGH-VOLTAGE TRANSFORMER-POWERED SHOCK GRID | Our Unique High-Powered Kill Grate Features a Non-Clogging Design, So Bugs are Zapped Instantly & Fall to the Ground Instead of Collecting Inside the Lantern | Compared to Competitors’ Standard 4,200 Volts, Our 5,600-Volt Shock Prevents Short Circuits & Guarantees a Dead Bug—Even Larger Diving Beetles, Royal Moths, Etc.

·       NO MORE TANKS TO FILL OR MESSY BAGS TO EMPTY | Save Time, Money, Mess & Worry! 100% Maintenance-Free, Environmentally-Friendly System Requires Zero Chemical Sprays, Fogs, Sticky Strips or Pesticides, Making it Safe for Use Around People, Children, Pets & Wildlife | Just the Occasional Quick & Easy UV Bulb Replacement [2] & Fresh Octenol Cartridges Placed in the Built-In Slots Keeps Your Bug Killer Operating for Many Years to Come

·       WEATHERPROOF, UL CERTIFIED & MADE IN THE USA | Decorative Lantern Features a Rugged Weatherproof Polycarbonate Housing That Will Never Rust, Crack or Fade Amidst Rain, Snow, Sleet, Ice & Other Elements, Promising Continuous Comfort & Unmatched Safety in the Great Outdoors Through All Seasons | For Peace of Mind, Our Proudly American-Made Zapper is UL Listed

Customer Reviews:

• " This is my third one. I have 3 acres and these work great. This time of year is horrible. These last for several years and very sturdy. I do not use the mosquito attractant I do not like the smell. But works amazing without it. Just plug it in and it starts zapping. I have two one in the front and back. Well worth the price." (3 stars)

• " Thankfully, this will be the next component that I am utilizing in my attempt to interrupt the breeding cycle of mosquitoes in my yard. So far, so good. Ever since it arrived, it has been working hard and zapping those pesky moths, mosquitoes, and other bugs in the backyard. I will admit, the number of bugs has diminished; it just took a little time. Seems to be working.” (5 STARS)

  
  

• Pros: Covers up to 2 acres, quick kill on contact, low energy use, durable and weather-resistant, safe grid design for households with kids and pets. Cons: Audible zapping noise, may kill non-pest insects, requires regular tray cleaning, corded so placement limited to outlets.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/45Dkk2a

These products help combat mosquito problems by attracting and eliminating pests, reducing the risk of vector-borne illnesses, and encouraging outdoor activities that boost physical fitness and mental health. Always place traps away from people to avoid attracting bugs closer, and consider combining with repellents for best results.

I hope this information helps you to stay safe and healthy. Have a great year!