City of Hamilton

West Nile Virus (WNV) - Reduce Exposure to Mosquito Bites

The best way to prevent getting infected with West Nile virus is by protecting yourself from mosquito bites. The following recommendations will help you enjoy the outdoors, with fewer mosquito bites.

Personal Protection

When outdoors in areas where mosquitoes are active, wear light coloured long-sleeved shirts and pants with fabric thick enough to prevent mosquitoes from biting. Shoes and socks are also recommended.

Insect Repellent

If you choose to use an insect repellent, use one that contains DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide). Ensure that you choose the correct DEET containing product that is suitable for the age of the person and for the time spent outdoors. Insect repellents that contain 30% DEET will remain effective for approximately 6 hours, 10% DEET will provide approximately 3 hours of protection, while 5% DEET provides approximately 2 hours of protection.

Deet and Children

Although current labels on insect repellents containing DEET state that these products are not to be used on children under the age of 2 years (infants or toddlers), the Pest Management Regulatory Agency's (PMRA) re-evaluation on DEET, which included input from the Canadian Pediatric Society, is now recommending that:

for children under six months of age,
- Insect repellents containing DEET should not to be used.
for children aged six months to two years of age,
- A maximum of one application per day may be used in situations where a high risk such as West Nile virus outbreak exists. If uncertain seek the advice of a physician.
- Only the least concentrated product (10% DEET or less) should be used.
- The product should be applied sparingly and not be applied to the face and hands.
- Prolonged use should be avoided.
for children between two to twelve years of age,
- A maximum of three applications per daytimes per day may be used in situations where a high risk of complications from insect bites exists.
- Only the least concentrated product (10% DEET or less) should be used.
- The product be applied sparingly and not be applied to the face and hands.

For further information for kids aged 6 months to 2 years, call your doctor or visit the Links and Resources page for a list of additional websites about West Nile virus.

Health precautions when using insect repellent. When using an insect repellent, carefully read and follow the manufacturer's directions. In addition, it is recommended to do the following:

Do not allow young children to apply DEET products themselves.
Do not apply DEET directly to children. Apply to your hands and then put it on the child's skin, avoiding the eyes, mouth and palms of hands. Best to use liquid or cream repellents that can be applied by hand.
If child is attending summer camp, ensure that they know how to use the products properly.
Wash all treated skin and clothing after returning indoors.
Store DEET, like other chemicals, out of reach of children.

Alternative to DEET Insect Repellents

The Pest Management Regulatory Agency is currently re-evaluating citronella and lavender oil. Please follow the label information regarding general use.

It is recommended that these products not be used on children under 2 years of age.
The citronella oil is registered in Canada to protect people against mosquito bites and can last for less than one hour. The registered lavender oil provides protection for half an hour or less.
Based on animal studies, citronella-based products can cause allergic reactions to some individuals.

Citronella and Mosquito Coils

Outdoor repellents such as citronella candles and mosquito coils are not entirely effective at protecting against mosquitoes. They must be used under proper conditions. The area needs to be protected so there is little breeze to dissipate the ingredients.

Ultrasonic devices, incense, and bug zappers have not been shown to be effective in preventing mosquito bites. The purpose of these devices is to attract mosquitoes. Therefore, if you wish to use one, ensure that it is located away from the home, or deck where you and your family sit.

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