Did you know that mosquitoes can sense the presence of humans even from far away? They're attracted to the heat, humidity and the carbon dioxide that are given off. Most mosquito repellents work by hiding the chemical cues that attract mosquitoes. A good repellent will offer protection for a long period of time after just one application. That's important because many diseases like West Nile virus are transmitted by mosquitoes.
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.
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.
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
There are two other active ingredients recommended by the CDC. These ingredients provide good protection but not for the length of time as higher concentrations as DEET. The two products are oil of lemon eucalyptus and IR3535. Testing by EPA says that oil of lemon eucalyptus provides protection that lasts as long as lower concentrations of DEET. Children under the age of 3 should not be exposed to this ingredient, so be sure to read the label of the specific product you choose.
In spite of many scientific studies, there is no evidence that ultrasonic mosquito repellent devices work. Neither is there any evidence that eating garlic, vitamins, onions, or any other food will repel mosquitoes from people. It seems the portable traps that emit carbon dioxide are still too new for any decision from the scientists.
To use mosquito repellents safely, follow these guidelines: Always read the instruction and follow the directions. Apply these products only to exposed skin. Do not apply repellents to cuts, wounds or rashes. Do not apply near eyes or mouth. Apply only lightly around the ears. Never allow children to apply these products. Always wash or bathe to remove these products when you return indoors.
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.
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.
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
There are two other active ingredients recommended by the CDC. These ingredients provide good protection but not for the length of time as higher concentrations as DEET. The two products are oil of lemon eucalyptus and IR3535. Testing by EPA says that oil of lemon eucalyptus provides protection that lasts as long as lower concentrations of DEET. Children under the age of 3 should not be exposed to this ingredient, so be sure to read the label of the specific product you choose.
In spite of many scientific studies, there is no evidence that ultrasonic mosquito repellent devices work. Neither is there any evidence that eating garlic, vitamins, onions, or any other food will repel mosquitoes from people. It seems the portable traps that emit carbon dioxide are still too new for any decision from the scientists.
To use mosquito repellents safely, follow these guidelines: Always read the instruction and follow the directions. Apply these products only to exposed skin. Do not apply repellents to cuts, wounds or rashes. Do not apply near eyes or mouth. Apply only lightly around the ears. Never allow children to apply these products. Always wash or bathe to remove these products when you return indoors.
About the Author:
Russ Frank is the owner and manager of Florida Bug Inspectors. He's been solving all kinds of pest problems, including mosquito control in Tampa for more than 25 years.
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