The Ministry of Health recalled that repellents are substances that, due to their smell or nature, offer protection against insect bites. HE recommends the use of repellents containing DEET (N N-diethyl-m-toluamide). The concentration of DEET can vary from one product to another and in the different forms of presentation.
– For children: it is not advisable to use repellents that contain more than 20% DEET.
It is important to note that the use of repellents is not recommended for children under six months of age.
– For adults: concentrations ranging from 25% to 30% DEET.
Generally, what time does the Aedes aegypti bite?
To apply the repellent, it is important to take into account that the greatest biting activity of Aedes aegypti is in the tomorrowseveral hours after dawn and in the late, hours before dark. Sometimes, however, it will feed during the day in indoor areas or in nearby areas protected from direct sunlight.
How long does the effect of the repellent last?
The duration of the repellent protection depends on the concentration of the product, it is advisable to see the specifications on the product label. Generally, insect repellents ensure protection for four to eight hours after use. They do not kill the insect, but they do keep it away from the area where the repellent has been applied.
Related note: Pregnant women can use repellent to avoid mosquito bites
To avoid the appearance of adverse effects caused by the use of repellent:
– Check the product label to find information about how much DEET contains the repellent. Use products whose concentrations do not exceed 30%. For children it should contain up to 20%.
– Always follow the instructions on the product label.
– Do not apply the repellent under clothing, but on exposed areas of skin.
– Do not apply the repellent to cuts, wounds or irritated skin.
– Do not spray products with DEET in enclosed areas.
– Do not spray DEET products directly on the facedo it carefully with your hands.
– Do not apply the repellent in the eye and mouth area.
– Do not apply the repellent on the hands and feet of children (by possible contact with the mouth).
– After application, wash your hands with plenty of soap and water.
recommendations
– Avoid leaving the repellent within the reach of children.
– The application of repellent in children should always be done by an adult.
– The application of repellent is not recommended in children under six months of age.
– When you stay outdoors, protect the baby’s stroller or crib with mosquito nets, also use it indoors.
– Do not apply repellents associated with sunscreens in the same formulation.
– You should not use repellent and sunscreen together, it is recommended to apply it 40 minutes apart between the two substances. The last to apply should be the repellent.
poisoning
In the event of any adverse reaction, it is recommended to go to the nearest health service, or to the National Toxicology Center, at the Trauma Hospital, located on Avenida General Santos casi Herminio Giménez, Asunción.
