Tips for buying mosquito coils and insect repellent

● Many personal insect repellents contain DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-tolu-amide), which is a mosquito repellent but also a skin irritant as well as a neurotoxin. If you have to use a repellent containing DEET, choose one with minimal levels of the chemical, preferably less than 10 per cent, and use it only when you really need to, for example where mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, are prevalent. Avoid repeated use and applying the repellent to broken skin. Be particularly cautious with children.

 

● Look for DEET-free repellents containing herbal essential oils, such as citronella, lavender, lemon grass, pennyroyal and peppermint.You will need to apply these more often and they may not be as effective as DEET- based types, but they are safer for long-term use.

● Many mosquito repellents contain allethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid that is a central nervous system stimulant. Prolonged use should be avoided, especially by children.

● Use allethrin-based products only outdoors. Safer alternatives are to burn a citronella candle outdoors and use screens and nets indoors.