Questions on DEET

Q: What is DEET?

A: DEET stands for the chemical N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide. It is an insect repellant that can reduce the risk of mosquito bites, but must be used with caution and as directed by the manufacturer's instructions.

Q: How do I use DEET?

A: Adults should not use a concentration greater than 30-35% DEET. A concentration greater than 10% DEET should never be used on children. Children should not apply repellant themselves. An adult should apply repellant onto his/her own hands then rub onto the child's skin. To avoid irritation of the eyes and mouth, do not use on the hands or faces of infants or small children. Children and adults should wash to remove residual repellant from the skin after returning indoors.

Q: Are there any health problems associated with the use of DEET?

A: Products containing DEET have been occasionally associated with some health problems (skin reactions, including rash, swelling, and itching; eye irritation; and less frequently, slurred speech, confusion, and seizures).

Q: Can DEET be sprayed on clothing?

A: DEET can be applied to clothing, but may damage some synthetic fabrics and plastics, especially when using repellants with a very high concentration of DEET. Clothing should be washed after use.

Frequently Asked Questions About West Nile Virus

General Questions
Questions on Illness
Questions on Birds and Reporting
Questions on Pets (Dogs, Cats, Birds)
Questions on Horses
Questions on Mosquitoes
Questions on Prevention (Mosquitoes, Environment)
Questions on DEET