It's that time of year when our children are spending a majority of their time playing outside.  Although they need that time outside we need to make sure and take steps to protect them from insect bites and bee stings.

     Insect repellents are used to reduce exposure to bites from insects that can carry diseases such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease.  It is important to protect your children but also to use the product appropriately.  Parents should choose the type and concentration of repellent to be used by taking into account the amount of time that a child will be outdoors, exposure to mosquitos, and the risk of mosquito-transmitted disease in the area.

     When applying repellent on children:

• Apply repellent on your own hands and then rub them on your child.  Avoid children's eyes and mouth and use it sparingly around their ears.
• Do not apply repellent to children's hands.  (Children may tend to put their hands in their mouths.)
• Do not allow young children to apply insect repellent to themselves; have an adult do it for them.
• Keep repellents out of reach of children.
• Do not apply repellent under clothing.  If repellent is applied to clothing, wash treated clothing before wearing again.  (May vary by product, check label for specific instructions.)

If you are concerned about using repellent products on children you may wish to consult your doctor, here at the office, or contact the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) through their toll-free number, 1.800.858.7378.

Below is a link for an article published by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regarding insect bites and bee stings.  If you have any further questions, you can also access the FDA webiste or the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) for further information.

Beware of Bug Bites and Stings article