How to Choose and Use Mosquito Control Repellents Safely
A number of important diseases, such as West Nile virus, are transmitted by mosquitoes. Mosquito repellents are an important part of our defense against such diseases. How do mosquitoes find us in the first place? They can sense the carbon dioxide, heat and even the humidity we give off. The way mosquito repellents work is to hide the cues that attract mosquitoes.
Mosquito repellents work better for some people than others. The level of protection is not equal. The age and level of activity of the person involved vary as do the gender and type of mosquito. Another important point is that these repellents only work on the surface they’re applied to. Good coverage is a must.
DEET is one of the most effective mosquito repellents. It became available in 1957. It is one of two products that the Center for Disease Control (CED) recommends because each works well and offers long-lasting protection. In addition DEET has an excellent safety record. The other product is picaridin.
Mosquito repellent products come in many concentrations. Which you choose will depend on how long you’re typically outside. If you’re usually out 3-4 hours, you might look for a product with 20% or more of DEET. However, scientists tell us that products containing more than 50% DEET do not offer extra protection. If you’re often outside for less than 3 hours a product with less than 20% DEET or 7% picaridin offers good protection.
According to various agencies and organizations, these mosquito repellents products are safe. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says DEET does not pose any health threat and is not a human carcinogen. The CDC recommends not combining sunscreen products with other products containing DEET. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics products that contain DEET are safe to use on children over two months old.
Oil of lemon eucalyptus and IR3535 are two other active ingredients recommended by CDC. While they do provide good protection, they don’t last as long as the higher concentrations of DEET. According to test done by EPA, oil of lemon eucalyptus provides about the same length of protection as the lower concentrations of DEET. Read the label of any product using this ingredient. Children less than 3 years of age should not be exposed to this ingredient.
In spite of widespread advertising, there is no scientific evidence that the ultrasonic mosquito repellent devices work. Current beliefs that eating garlic, vitamins, onions, or any other food can repel mosquitoes are not true. The portable mosquito traps that emit carbon dioxide are too new to have been thoroughly tested yet.
The following guidelines will help use mosquito repellents safely: Read the label and follow directions. Apply these products only to exposed skin, never under clothing. Avoid applying these products to wounds, rashes or cuts. Never apply near mouth or eyes and apply only lightly around the ears. Children should not be allowed to apply these products. Wash with soap and water or bathe when you return indoors.