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1. Why should I use insect repellent?

Insect repellents help people reduce their exposure to mosquito bites that may carry potentially serious viruses, such as West Nile Virus, and allow them to continue to remain active outdoors throughout the year.

2. How does insect repellent work?

Female mosquitoes bite people and animals because they need the protein found in blood to help develop their eggs. Mosquitoes are attracted to people by skin odors and carbon dioxide from breath. Many repellents contain a chemical N1N-diethyl-m-tolumide (DEET), which has been proven to repel mosquitoes and other insects (but does not kill them).

3. Are non-DEET repellents effective?

Yes. Insect repellents containing picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and have been shown to be effective against biting insects.

4. Which repellent should I use?

Insect repellents contain DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus, which are effective in repelling pests. 

One thing to look for in your product is its effectivity time. A longer effectivity means fewer applications are necessary.

5. When should I use insect repellent?

Apply repellent whenever you are going to be outdoors and at risk for being bitten by mosquitoes or other insects.

6. How often should repellent be re-applied?

For best results, follow the directions on the product you are using. Sweating, perspiration or getting wet may mean that you need to re-apply more frequently. Repellents containing a higher concentration of active ingredient generally provide longer-lasting protection.

7. Should I wear repellent while indoors?

Probably not. If mosquitoes are biting you while indoors, there are probably better ways to prevent this than wearing repellent while inside. Check windows and screens for holes that are allowing insects into your building, or add these screens if your home does not have them. In some areas of our region, there are community programs to help those who may need assistance with this.

8. Are insect repellents safe for me and my family?

Yes, products containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 and oil of lemon eucalyptus are safe to use according to product directions. A great deal of testing has been completed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other groups to ensure safety of these products.

9. What are some considerations to follow when using insect repellent products?

Always follow the manufacturers’ instructions when using these products. In general, use enough repellent to cover exposed skin and clothing; it is not necessary to apply repellent to skin under clothing. Do not apply repellent to cuts, wounds, irritated skin or open sores. After returning from outdoor activity, wash treated areas with soap and water. Do not apply aerosol products directly to your face – spray into your hands and rub onto the face (avoiding mouth and eyes), and then wash hands. Do not spray in enclosed areas or near food.

10. How should insect repellent products be used on children?

Parents should choose the type and concentration of repellent to be used based upon the length of time that a child will be outdoors. For more information, speak with your personal medical provider or visit the American Academy of Pediatrics website.

It is recommended that insect repellent not be applied by children themselves. For application on and around the face, an adult should apply repellent to his/her hands and then put onto the child.

11. Are there risks to using insect repellents?

Use of these products may cause skin reactions in rare occasions. If you experience a reaction to these products, discontinue use and contact your local poison control center (or call the national hotline at 1-800-222-1222).

12. Are insect repellents safe for pregnant or nursing women?

There are no reported adverse events following the use of repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus in pregnant or breastfeeding women. If you have questions, please consult your personal medical provider.

13. Where can I get more information about repellents?

For more information about using insect repellents, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Environmental Protection Agency.