Mosquito Bites

When it comes to mosquito bites, I am a big baby for two reasons: I cannot resist the itching and this inability to stop the itching sensation has the same psychological effect as claustrophobia (I can’t get away from it). One or two bites aren’t problematic, but I somehow have this picture of Uganda being continuously infested with swarms of mosquitoes, and…well, I’m a little worried.

Several steps can be taken to protect against the disease-carrying mosquitoes (and thus bites): avoiding outbreak areas, avoiding peak exposure times, wearing appropriate clothing, checking for tics, using bed nets, and applying insecticide with DEET.

According to the Agency for Toxic Substance & Disease Registry, the incorrect application of DEET can lead to health issues such as skin irritation, disorientation, dizziness and, in extreme cases, seizures or death. I wonder if a bath in 100% DEET every day for two weeks would be considered an “incorrect application.”

Deuteronomy 28:27 describes being inflicted with an itch that cannot be cured as a curse for disobedience.

Ugandan Dining

Most Ugandans produce their own food, cook over an open fire, and eat two meals a day. Table manners in Uganda are as follows: wash your hands before eating, sit on the floor mat during a meal, expect a prayer before eating, children will only speak when asked a question, compliment the mother after the meal, don’t leave the room during a meal, and don’t lean on your left hand or stretch your legs during a meal.

I was recently asked whether I am “okay with limited food options.” With 82% of the Ugandan economy based on agriculture, I was hoping to have some delicious meals made with fresh foods. I had to ask…what exactly does “limited” mean? Here is the list of fresh foods I will enjoy: a plantain banana dish (matoke – green bananas peeled, boiled, and mashed), fruit (probably oranges, papayas, lemons, and pineapple), fresh tilapia, chicken, rice, beans, and potatoes. I was going to make a wise crack about the chicken skin (because I love crispy chicken skin). However, I’m afraid the chicken might be served feathers and all, so I’ll just refrain.

Skinny…here I come!