If you are taking your children into the woods or in grassy areas where ticks and mosquitoes are prevalent, applying a DEET-based insect repellent is a very effective way of protecting them from insect bites. If you are travelling in areas where insect-borne disease e.g. malaria, dengue fever or West Nile Virus is a problem then the use of DEET is mandatory. Over the years medical travel writers have been cautious regarding the use of DEET in children and have tended to recommend low concentrations of DEET.

Since the initial outbreak in 1999, the beginning of the 21st century has seen an exponential growth of West Nile Virus in the USA. This, in turn, has increased the use of DEET in the USA and brought about a re-evaluation of the use of DEET in children by various eminent bodies.

• The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that when label instructions are followed, all concentrations of DEET repellents can be used by people of all ages above two.
• The American Academy of Paediatrics now advise that most children can use DEET products with concentrations up to 30%.
• The US Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that pregnant women can use up to 35% DEET sparingly, applying only to exposed parts by hand rather than direct spraying.

We suggest the following common-sense do's and don'ts where children are concerned:

	Do read the entire product label before applying the repellent.
	Do apply only to exposed skin avoiding the eyes and mouth.
	Do avoid over-saturation - it's not necessary for adequate protection.
	Do keep out of the reach of children. DEET is toxic if swallowed.
	Do cleanse the skin with soap and water when returning indoors.
	Do look out for any skin reaction to the repellent. In the rare event of this, wash the area immediately and seek medical attention.

	Do not apply to wounds or scratches.
	Do not apply to the hands of small children, which may go in their mouths!
	Do not allow young children to apply the product themselves.