What is the best way to apply DEET-based repellents on a child?
Put repellent on your own hands and smooth it evenly over the child’s exposed skin. Don’t apply under clothing unless insects are biting through it. Use a concentration that matches the time the child will be outside—a 7% product provides about 90 minutes of protection. A 30% product lasts 4-5 hours. Never spray repellent on or near the child’s face (to avoid inhaling the repellent). Reapply when insects start biting again. Do not put repellent on the hands of very young children who tend have their fingers in their mouths often. Read and follow product label instructions. You can also visit the Web site of the manufacturer or www.deetonline.org. The latter has a video showing application on children. If children are using a lower concentration DEET-based repellent than their parents, be aware that they’ll be bitten SOONER. So keep an eye out to help keep them protected.
