Mosquitoes are unwelcome guests at an outdoor barbecue.
Guests at a typical backyard barbecue are probably not likely to contract mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. However, it is true that mosquitoes may come out to bother human guests of all ages. Having some repellent on hand could help keep barbecue-goers from being bitten; fortunately, a number of repellents are available. Does this Spark an idea?
DEET
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), DEET, or N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide, is an EPA-registered repellent that can "reduce the possibility of being bitten by insects or arthropods that can transmit diseases." DEET is also a chemical that may cause allergic reactions, some of which can be severe. In spite of its drawbacks, the CDC recommends its use in formulations as high as 50 percent for adults and children over 2 months old.
Picaridin
Picaridin is a plant-based chemical insect repellent. Its active chemical ingredient is related to the compound that gives pepper its spice. It works by forming a barrier between the skin surface and a mosquito's natural ability to home in on human skin. Picaridin may feel a bit oily or greasy, but it has virtually no odor and can be used by both children and adults. It may be listed as KBR3023 and may be available in a product named Bayrepel.
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
Oil of lemon eucalyptus is a plant-based insect repellent alternative to DEET, capable of repelling both mosquitoes and ticks. Products with oil of lemon eucalyptus commonly specify on their labels that they are not for use on children less than 3 years of age.
Geraniol
Geraniol is a natural plant ingredient that acts as an insect repellent. It is derived from an extraction of and processing of geranium oil. It is commonly used in products that contain essential oils.
Safe Use Suggestions
For any repellent, follow product package directions for application. Spray onto open hands and then apply to face, instead of spraying on or near face. Keep repellents away from mouth and eyes and apply sparingly near the ears. Apply to clothing only if package directions suggest doing so. Many repellents can damage vinyl, synthetic fabrics and leather. For an additional layer of protection against biting insects, wear clothing that is loose fitting and light colored. Avoid use of other scented products such as hair spray and perfumes, especially when mosquitoes are likely to be feeding, such as at dawn and dusk. Wear a hat. Wear closed shoes. Tuck pant legs into socks to eliminate exposed skin around ankles.
Warnings
Do not apply repellents on cuts, open wounds or skin that is irritated. Do not permit children to handle repellents. Adults should apply repellents on children, avoiding contact with the child's hands. Use only a sufficient amount to cover exposed areas of skin and clothing, applying enough to saturate. If insects bite in spite of repellent thinly applied, increase application slightly. After outdoor exposure is concluded, wash the skin where repellent was applied using soap. According to product labels, wash any clothing that was treated with repellent before re-wearing. If a rash or other reaction to the repellent develops, cease using the product, wash with water and mild soap, and obtain guidance from the nearest regional poison control center. Retain the repellent container and present it to any physician consulted as a result of a reaction.
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