| In the era of the West Nile virus, protection against | | | | DEET is the only recommended insect repellent to |
| insect bites is a must. Here are some tips to consider | | | | prevent "West Nile Virus." |
| for your next family canoing trip, or an outing to the | | | | Do not use repellents on babies younger than 2 |
| local park. | | | | months of age, and use with extreme caution in older |
| Insects are attracted to bright colors, fragrance, and | | | | infants. |
| standing water. Therefore, avoid wearing pinks and | | | | When bitten by an insect, apply a cold compress to |
| reds, as well as perfumes and scented lotions when | | | | the bite area right away. Benadryl can be administered |
| venturing outside. Otherwise, insects might mistake you | | | | for itching as well. If swelling, redness, and tenderness |
| for a delicious flower and you will get stung numerous | | | | persist, or get worse, consult with your health care |
| times! | | | | provider right away. Insect bites may get infected and |
| Wear insect repellent on uncovered body parts, but | | | | cause cellulites, infection of the soft tissue surrounding |
| avoid the face and hands, especially on children. | | | | the bite. When that happens the skin looks red, is |
| Insect repellents with 10% DEET will give protection for | | | | tender, and hot to the touch. There might be some |
| up to 3 hours (examples: OFF, Cutter, Avon Skin So | | | | visible drainage as well. Infection needs to be evaluated |
| Soft) and may be re-applied up to 3 times a day. Of | | | | and treated promptly by your child's health care |
| course, wash your the skin after you or your child | | | | provider. |
| comes inside. | | | | |