However, DEET, a registered pesticide, poses risks to you too.ĭEET can be absorbed into your bloodstream, and even into your gut. Some DEET-based products have been found to be the most effective and long-lasting (up to 8 hours of performance) in studies. The most popular key ingredient in conventional bug spray is DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). What is the concern with traditional bug repellents? When I use each depends on the risks involved. But I will now use both sets of options (chemical and natural) as strategies against dangerous insect bites. I ended my research more informed but still conflicted. I've read and seen products that claim that essential oils from basil, lavendar, peppermint, and other plants can repel insects. So, I researched for the least toxic insect repellants that were still considered effective against Zika. The World Health Organization declaring it a " Public Health Emergency of International Concern" also motivated me to be extra cautious. The effects of Zika are still being studied so I was also nervous about the unknown, and potential risks, to my children getting infected. While pregnant women and women of childbearing age are of greatest risk to the Zika virus, Zika can make anyone sick for up to a week with fever, rash, joint pain, red eyes, and other symptoms. During our family's spring break vacation, we visited a high-risk area for the Zika virus. As a mother of three and a toxic exposures expert, I've been wondering about insect repellents.
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