Travel to Asia Just Got Safer: Clinically Proven, DEET-Free Protection for Australians

As thousands of Australians prepare to escape the winter chill for tropical destinations like Bali, Thailand, and Fiji, they may be flying into more than just sunshine. With Dengue Fever, Zika Virus, Chikungunya, and Japanese Encephalitis on the rise, the right insect repellent is more than a travel essential - it's a health safeguard.

Unlike many leading brands that rely on DEET, FEND Insect Repellent is clinically proven to provide up to 14 hours of protection against the mosquito species that carry these viruses - all with a DEET-free, skin-friendly formula safe for the whole family - suitable from 2 months.

Backed by Clinical Trials — Not Just Marketing Jargon

While many leading repellents still rely on DEET, a harsh chemical restricted in some countries due to health and environmental concerns, FEND is different.

In controlled clinical trials using the World Health Organization's gold-standard "arm-in-cage" method, FEND was tested against the four mosquito species found in Bali, Thailand and Fiji. The results speak for themselves:

• Aedes aegypti & Culex quinquefasciatus - 0 bites for 14 hours
• Aedes albopictus & Anopheles aquasalis - 0 bites for 13 hours

Why DEET-Free Matters

DEET, while once considered the gold standard, is now banned or restricted in several countries due to concerns about skin reactions, neurotoxicity (especially in children), and its ability to melt plastics and synthetics. Many leading repellents still rely on this harsh chemical, and don't offer independent clinical proof of protection. FEND uses IR3535®, a dermatologist-tested active developed by Merck and backed by WHO and CDC guidelines, that's gentle on skin, safe for children and infants, and environmentally responsible.

Why FEND is a Safer, Smarter Choice

• DEET-Free - Formulated with IR3535®, a gentler active approved by WHO and CDC
• Clinically Proven - Lab-tested for up to 14 hours of full protection
• Safe for All - Suitable from 2+ months, including pregnant and breastfeeding women
• Hypoallergenic - Dermatologist tested and reef-safe
• Travel Friendly - Compact 50ml bottles ideal for carry-ons and day trips

Smart Traveller Warnings: Mosquito Risks Across the Tropics this Australian Winter

• Indonesia- "Dengue occurs throughout Indonesia. Australian health authorities have reported a recent increase in dengue infections in people returning from Bali, including from popular tourist regions."
• Thailand - "Insect-borne diseases include malaria, Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is as insect-proof as possible."
• Fiji - "Risks of leptospirosis and mosquito-borne illnesses. Cases of typhoid, Zika and dengue are present throughout Fiji. Protect yourself against mosquito bites and ensure vaccinations are up-to-date."

Know Your Enemy: Which Mosquitoes Spread What

Aedes aegypti & Aedes albopictus (Asian Tiger Mosquito): These aggressive daytime biters thrive near people in warm, tropical climates like Indonesia, Thailand, and the Pacific.

Transmit: Dengue Fever, Zika Virus and Chikungunya

Culex quinquefasciatus (Southern House Mosquito): A night biter that breeds in stagnant and polluted water, common across urban and semi-rural regions.

Transmit: Japanese Encephalitis

Anopheles aquasalis: Nighttime biters, typically found in coastal and brackish water regions, especially in tropical and subtropical climates.

Transmit: Malaria 

FEND is available online at fend.au and through selected Australian pharmacies, including Chemist Warehouse Marketplace. RRP: 50ml Travel Pump - $19.95 or 50ml Kids Roll-On - $19.95.

PR Contact: Lisa Solomons | E: lisa@360pr.com.au | M: 0416 175 518