West Nile virus has meant new insect repellant considerations. In general, use only when necessary and follow the recommended guidelines from the American Society of Pediatrics and Health Canada.

• When mosquitoes and other biting bugs are present, you can use insect repellents such as products containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide). The concentration of DEET should be no greater than 30 per cent for adults and no greater than 10 per cent for children.
• Apply repellent sparingly on exposed skin or on top of clothing. Do not use under clothing. A light coating will do--the repellent doesn’t have to be applied heavily to be effective. Avoid spraying in enclosed areas. Do not use DEET near food.
• Do not use DEET on the hands of young children; avoid applying to areas around the eyes and mouth. Do not use DEET over cuts, wounds or irritated skin.
• Wash treated skin with soap and water after returning indoors and wash treated clothing.
• DEET-containing repellents are not to be used on children under 2 months of age according to the American Society of Pediatrics and, more conservative, under 6 months of age according to Health Canada. Use mosquito netting for babies and toddlers in cribs and strollers.
• Use insect repellent only when needed and follow label directions carefully, including restrictions for use on young children and maximum number of applications per day.
• DEET should not be used in a product that combines the repellent with a sunscreen. Repeated application as required with sunscreen may increase the potential toxic effects of DEET.