Should You Use A DEET Insect Repellent?

DEET insect repellent has been proven to be the most effective solution to the problem of insect bites and their potential consequences. It is, of course, a synthetic chemical based solution, which means that there are potential side effects to its use, and there are people who will have a skin reaction when they try to use it. People who are against the use of chemicals in any product of this type can find a natural alternative, but as of now there is no natural solution which offers the same strength as DEET.

It does appear, based on the results of surveys carried out across the USA, that the immediate toxicity risk of DEET insect repellents is extremely small. The number of seizures which could be attributed to the use of DEET was only double figures, yet the substance is used by a large percentage of the American population ever year without problem. Only four deaths were reported, and the risk was estimated as being less than one in one hundred million. There is less risk with DEET than with most types of food which are linked with allergies.

Of course this does not take into account the effects of persistent long term use, and the possible degenerative effects over many years. It also does not consider the effect of the chemical on mood, sleep, or other intangible factors. Surveys carried out in National Park facilities where employees have a continuous exposure to DEET did suggest that there was a considerable negative effect on mental processes. There is clearly a hazard in prolonged use of DEET, so it should be kept to times and places where it is genuinely needed.

The greatest concern amongst many people traveling to places where a DEET insect repellent may be necessary is the effect it may have on children. DEET based solutions are always recommended for use with children, to prevent any problems from insect bites which could be long lasting or troublesome for years to come. Many are concerned about the risk. It does have to be pointed out based on the results given above that there is some degree of risk in the use of DEET, but the vast majority of children use it for the short term with no ill effect.

Of course the other major factor in deciding whether to use a DEET insect repellent is considering what the practical alternatives are. There are a few, including some entirely natural products. Of these, eucalyptus oil is the one which has proven to most closely match the properties of DEET, without the same potential for side effects. The disadvantage of any natural solution is that it needs to be applied far more often, so be sure to set reminders if you are switching to a natural substance from DEET insect repellent.






 

Repel Insect Repellent News:

 

Expect lots of mosquitoes this year
Thanks to an abnormally warm winter and tropical storms in the fall, this year could be a big one for mosquitoes...


De la Cruz-Busto: Discovering little known facts
I AM usually at home reading autobiographies and books of facts. In fact, these mostly compose my reading collection. I am just so drawn with facts and non-fiction, and those that tell its readers on the Hows, Whys, Whats, Whens and Wheres of life, thus, my interest in these books...


Warm and Furry, but They Pack a Toxic Punch - New York Times

New York Times
Warm and Furry, but They Pack a Toxic Punch
New York Times
Venoms and repellents are hardly rare in nature: Many insects, frogs, snakes, jellyfish and other phyletic characters use them with abandon. But mammals generally rely, for defense or offense, on teeth, claws, muscles, keen senses or quick wits.

and more »
..


My Husband and Other Animals EUR” A moveable feast - The Hindu

The Hindu
My Husband and Other Animals EUR” A moveable feast
The Hindu
They buzz around lights and eventually commit suicide in our beverages and dinners. The rest of the year, diligent workers find devious ways of attacking wood furniture. Friends who cry EURśHerbal mozzie repellent only pleaseEURť nuke termites with awful .

..


Oscar 2012: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close: An Extreme Surprise - Hollywood Today Newsmagazine

Oscar 2012: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close: An Extreme Surprise
Hollywood Today Newsmagazine
The critical buzz that surrounded it for some weeks had acted like a fast-acting insect repellent, effective enough to keep me EUR and undoubtedly many others EUR away from it. We were deciding in advance that we did not like it EUR but without a .

and more »
..


 




Many, if not all of the links on this website are affiliate links which means that we will be compensated if you choose to buy at some point in the near future. Please accept our sincere thanks for your support.


Technorati Tags: , ,