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The most effective insect repellents contain DEET
(N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), which is an ingredient used to repel pests like
mosquitoes and ticks. Mosquitoes have been known to carry potentially serious
viruses such as encephalitis, West Nile virus and Lyme disease. Available in
25%, 30%, and 100% DEET, Tec Labs’ insect repellents are standard issue for
outdoor work crews. |
| FAQ's Insect Repellents |
Why should I use insect repellent?
Insect repellents help people reduce their exposure to
mosquito bites that may carry potentially serious viruses such as
encephalitis, West Nile virus and Lyme disease, and allow them to
continue to play and work outdoors. |
Which mosquito repellent works the best?
The most effective repellents contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide),
which is an ingredient used to repel pests like mosquitoes and ticks.
DEET has been tested against a variety of biting insects and has been
shown to be very effective. The more DEET a repellent contains the
longer time it can protect you from mosquito bites. A higher percentage
of DEET in a repellent does not mean that your protection is better,
just that it lasts longer. |
Why does the CDC recommend using DEET?
DEET is the most effective and
best-studied insect repellent available. (Fradin, 1998). Studies using
humans and mosquitoes report that only products containing DEET offer
long-lasting protection after a single application. (Fradin and Day,
2002) |
Is DEET safe?
Yes, products containing DEET are very safe when used
according to directions. Because DEET is so widely used, a great deal of
testing has been done. When manufacturers seek registration with the U.
S. Environmental Protection Agency for products such as DEET, laboratory
testing regarding both short-term and long-term health effects must be
carried out. Over the long history of DEET use, very few confirmed
incidents of toxic reactions to DEET have occurred when the product is
used properly. |
What insects should I be aware of when working
outdoors?
As an outdoor worker you need to be aware of mosquitoes,
ticks, spiders, ants and centipedes that are in the area. Some pack an
ugly bite or sting, while others carry a variety of diseases such as
encephalitis, West Nile Virus and Lyme disease. |
How do I protect against encephalitis, West Nile
Virus and Lyme disease?
All three diseases are carried by ticks or mosquitoes.
Therefore, an effective insect repellent that contains DEET should be
used. If possible, you should wear proper clothing such as long sleeved
shirts and pants that fit tightly around your wrists and ankles. |
What are the symptoms of encephalitis?
The typical symptoms are headache, fever, and extreme
lethargy, which can lead eventually to coma, double vision, delirium,
deafness, and facial palsy which often occur in the acute stage of the
disease. The after effects of encephalitis may include deafness,
epilepsy and dementia. |
What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus?
Most infections are mild and symptoms include fever,
headache, body aches and occasionally a rash. More severe infection may
lead to tremors, coma, paralysis and on rare occasions death. |
What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?
The first sign of Lyme disease is often a rash at the
site of the tick bite. The rash usually grows to a raised, red circle
that has a clear center and is warm to the touch. Lyme disease can also
cause flu-like symptoms, headache nausea. |
What do I do if I get a tick?
If a tick is attached, remove it immediately with
tweezers. Gently grasp the tick as close as possible to the skin and
slowly pull it away. If tweezers are not available, fingers covered with
tissue paper can be used. Do not attempt to remove the tick with
petroleum jelly, hot objects such as matches or cigarettes, or by other
methods. After handling ticks, be sure to wash hands thoroughly with
soap and water. |
What is Rocky Mountain spotted fever?
Rocky Mountain spotted fever is the most common fatal
tick-borne disease in the United States and is carried by the American
dog tick. As a precaution, people should check at least twice a day for
attached ticks. Using an effective repellent and wearing protective
clothing is recommended. |
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