How to Choose and Use Mosquito Control Repellents Wisely
Posted by | Posted on 12:52 AM
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.
Mosquito repellents don't work exactly the same for everyone. They work better for some and not as well on others. The factors involved include the age, gender and activity level of the person involved. The type of mosquito is a factor as well. Another important fact is that mosquito repellents only work on the surface they're applied to.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends two products, DEET and picaridin. According to the CDC, each of these products works well and offers long lasting protection. DEET was developed in the 1940's for the U.S. Army and first offered to the public in 1957.
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 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.
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.
Mosquito repellents don't work exactly the same for everyone. They work better for some and not as well on others. The factors involved include the age, gender and activity level of the person involved. The type of mosquito is a factor as well. Another important fact is that mosquito repellents only work on the surface they're applied to.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends two products, DEET and picaridin. According to the CDC, each of these products works well and offers long lasting protection. DEET was developed in the 1940's for the U.S. Army and first offered to the public in 1957.
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 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.
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.
About the Author:
Russ Frank is a pest control expert in Tampa. He's been helping families and businesses in Tampa solve termite, roach, ant, flea and mosquito control problems for over 25 years.
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