Insect bites can be uncomfortable and in some cases, can spread disease. In cases where you may choose to use insect repellent on your child, keep these tips in mind:
- Do not use insect repellent on infants under 2 months old. Instead, cover strollers with mosquito netting.
- Minimize exposed skin by dressing in long sleeves and pants, to reduce the area that needs to be covered with repellent.
- DEET is safe and effective to use on children. Use no more than 30% DEET on children and only apply once per day. A 30% DEET repellent should last about 5 hours.
- Apply to exposed skin and clothing, never under clothes. Avoid the eyes, mouth, cuts and irritated skin.
- Choose sticks, lotion and unpressurized sprays to avoid inhaling the repellent or getting it in the eyes. Have your child close their eyes and mouth during application if using any type of spray.
- Avoid applying repellent to the hands of young children who may put their hands in their mouths and eyes.
