Scratch,
scratch, scratch. Kids love to scratch
their itchy insect bites. Which is why
parents are quick to apply insect repellents before they go outside. However, experts caution parents and
caregivers to always read and follow label directions when applying insect
repellents.
The
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that all parents adhere to
these precautionary statements regarding repellents:
- Do not allow children to handle
insect repellent products, and do not apply to children's hands. When
using on children, apply to your own hands and then put it on your child.
- After returning indoors, wash
your child's treated skin and clothes with soap and water or give them a
bath.
While they may seem like a healthier alternative, some oil of lemon eucalyptus products should
not be used on children under the age of three. There
are no restrictions for use on children under three years of age for certain insect
repellent products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus as their sole active
ingredient at concentrations of 30% or less.
The
use of DEET always comes up, according to the EPA, and their stance is that it
is okay for use on children, with no age restriction. Also, there is no
restriction on the percentage of DEET in the product for use on children, and
there is no data showing incidents that would lead the EPA to believe there is
a need to restrict the use of DEET.
Because
children frequently put their hands in their eyes and mouths, always store
insect repellents safely out of the reach of children.
If
you have any concerns about using repellent products on children you can visit
the National Pesticide Information Center at
http://npic.orst.edu/ or use their toll-free number, 1-800-858-7378.
Other articles by HVP News Reporters