At best, insect bites are annoying. At worst, they can be dangerous. Mosquitoes and biting flies can carry disease. In Canada, though, reports of such cases are relatively rare.

There are several ways to avoid insect bites:

• Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts outdoors.
• Avoid places where mosquitoes breed and live, like standing water.
• Stay inside when mosquitoes are most active: dawn, dusk, early evening.
• Use insect repellent.

Insect repellents contain a chemical called DEET, which keeps flies and mosquitoes away. Not all products have the same concentration, or amount, of DEET. This amount is expressed as a percentage, such as 10% DEET.

Insect repellents that are used on children should have a small concentration of DEET (see below for specific recommendations based on age).

Like any chemical, insect repellents should be used safely. Here are some suggestions:

• When using insect repellent on children, always apply it for them.
• Always read the entire label before using.
• Apply the product lightly. Don’t use more than you need.
• Do not apply on irritated or sunburned skin.
• Apply it only on top of clothing or to skin that is showing. Don’t use it under clothes.
• Do not get it in eyes. If you do get insect repellent in your eyes, rinse with water right away.
• If you are spraying, be careful not to breathe it. Always spray products in a place that is well ventilated. Don’t spray it in a tent, or near food.
• Don’t spray children’s hands. They’ll be less likely to get it into their eyes or mouth.
• When you don’t need the protection anymore, wash the skin with soap and water.
• If you think your child is having a reaction to the product, wash the skin and get medical help right away. Take the container with you so the doctor knows what you used.

• Do not use insect repellents with DEET on infants under 6 months of age.
• Although there is no known hazard to breastfed infants, nursing mothers may wish to consider DEET alternatives, such as using protective clothing and avoiding exposure to insects (see above). 
• Products containing citronella or lavender oil should not be used on infants.

• If there is a high risk of complications from insect bites (for example, an area where there are reports of West Nile virus), you can use products with DEET only once a day.
• Use a product with the least available concentration: 10% DEET or less.
• Products containing citronella or lavender oil should not be used.
• Use just a little bit of the product. Don’t apply it to the child’s face or hands.
• It’s best not to use the product for a long time.

• Use a product with no more than 10% DEET.
• Do not apply more than 3 times a day.
• Do not apply to the child’s face or hands.
• It’s best not to use the product for a long time.

Although there is no known hazard to the unborn child, pregnant women may wish to consider DEET alternatives, such as using protective clothing and avoiding exposure to insects (see above). 

For more information:

Source: This information was adapted with permission from “Safety Tips on Using Personal Insect Repellents”, published by Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency, April 2002.

Reviewed: May 2006