Mosquitoes know when humans are nearby. Even from a distance they can sense the heat and carbon dioxide that we give off. The way mosquito repellents typically work is by masking those cues that attract mosquitoes. Because several important diseases are transmitted by mosquitoes, it's important to use a good mosquito repellent.
It's important to remember that mosquito repellents do not protect everyone equally. Many factors are involved including the type of mosquito and the age, sex, and level of activity of the person involved. Remember too that mosquito repellent only works on the surface to which it's applied directly.
One of the most effective repellents is DEET. Another good one is picaridin. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends these products because they work well and offer long lasting protection. DEET was first offered for sale in 1957 and has an excellent safety record.
The length of time you're outside can help you determine what concentration your mosquito repellent needs to be. If you're often outside 3-4 hours, you'll need a product with 20% or more of DEET for good protection. If you're typically outside for less than 3 hours, consider a product with less than 20% DEET or 7% picaridin. Products with more than 50% DEET do not offer any extra protection.
According to the Environmental Protection agency (EPA), when used according to directions, DEET does not present any health concerns and isn't classifiable as a human carcinogen. The CDC does not recommend combining DEET with sunscreen or using products that do combine the products. The American Academy of Pediatrics says DEET in concentrations below 30% is safe for children aged two months and older
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.
Here are the ground rules for using mosquito repellents safely: Read and follow the instructions on the label. Only apply these products to exposed skin. Don't use these products under clothing. Don't apply to cuts, wounds or rashes. Don't apply near eyes or mouth, and apply lightly around the ears. Don't allow children to apply these products. When you return indoors, wash with soap and water or bathe.
It's important to remember that mosquito repellents do not protect everyone equally. Many factors are involved including the type of mosquito and the age, sex, and level of activity of the person involved. Remember too that mosquito repellent only works on the surface to which it's applied directly.
One of the most effective repellents is DEET. Another good one is picaridin. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends these products because they work well and offer long lasting protection. DEET was first offered for sale in 1957 and has an excellent safety record.
The length of time you're outside can help you determine what concentration your mosquito repellent needs to be. If you're often outside 3-4 hours, you'll need a product with 20% or more of DEET for good protection. If you're typically outside for less than 3 hours, consider a product with less than 20% DEET or 7% picaridin. Products with more than 50% DEET do not offer any extra protection.
According to the Environmental Protection agency (EPA), when used according to directions, DEET does not present any health concerns and isn't classifiable as a human carcinogen. The CDC does not recommend combining DEET with sunscreen or using products that do combine the products. The American Academy of Pediatrics says DEET in concentrations below 30% is safe for children aged two months and older
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.
Here are the ground rules for using mosquito repellents safely: Read and follow the instructions on the label. Only apply these products to exposed skin. Don't use these products under clothing. Don't apply to cuts, wounds or rashes. Don't apply near eyes or mouth, and apply lightly around the ears. Don't allow children to apply these products. When you return indoors, wash with soap and water or bathe.
About the Author:
Russ Frank is a mosquito Tampa mosquito control expert. He's been helping families and businesses in Tampa solve mosquito termite, roach, ant, flea and other pest control problems for over 25 years.
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