Bites and stings can lead to infection, so keep wounds clean and wash with antiseptic soap. Take steps to avoid insect bites by wearing a generous layer of bug spray during the day and remaining in well-screened areas at night; in cheaper hotels, use a mosquito net or, in an emergency, wear clothes that cover as much of your body as possible. You should also bring insect repellent (preferably containing DEET) and use it on exposed areas of skin at all times, though especially from dusk until dawn when malarial mosquitoes are active. Sand flies , often present on beaches at dusk, are tiny but possessed of a painful bite; they ignore most repellents but can typically be avoided if you use Avon Skin-So-Soft.

There are some snakes in the Caribbean, but very few are poisonous. One notable exception is the fer-de-lance, found on Martinique, St Lucia and Trinidad, and identifiable by its pointed head, yellow underside and chin, and orangish-brown triangular markings. Fortunately, most snakes will slither away before you know they are there. However, to be safe you should wear thick socks and boots when hiking through undergrowth or rainforest. If you do get bitten , note the snake's appearance, immobilize the bitten limb as much as possible and seek medical help immediately.

You're more likely to encounter the many spiny blacksea urchins that inhabit reefs and bays; if you tread on one, remove as much of the spine as possible, douse the area in vinegar (or even urine) and see a doctor. Take care to avoid the purple Portuguese man o' war , a rare but toxic jellyfish whose trailing tendrils leave red welts. Similarly, never touch coral; you'll kill the organism on contact and come away with a painful, slow-healing rash. In both instances, washing with vinegar or iodine will help; again urine can be used if nothing else is available, and should pain persist consult a doctor. For stingray and stonefish stings, alleviate the pain by immersing the wound in very hot water - just under 50ºC - while waiting for medical help.