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| The Dangers of D.E.E.T And Other Chemical Repellents |
| Most all insect repellents being manufactured today were never intended for everyday use, and present health hazards you may not be aware of. Particularly those containing D.E.E.T. and a chemical called Permethrin. The following information obtained from a recent release from Duke University explains: |
| And the use on children can be even more dangerous. The report goes on to say: |
| For more information and to read the entire report, click on this link: Duke University Health Tip |
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| (Index) (Repel-lets-The New Standard) (Insect Transmitted Diseases) (US State Parks) (Golf Courses and Campgrounds) (Purchase Repel-lets) |
| DEET should be used with caution due to its possible damaging effects on brain cells. Studies have shown that DEET causes brain cell death and behavioral changes in rats after frequent and prolonged use. This exposure causes neurons to die in regions of the brain that control muscle movement, learning, memory, and concentration. Rats treated with an average human dose of DEET (40 mg/kg body weight) performed far worse when challenged with physical tasks requiring muscle control, strength and coordination. These findings are consistent with reported human symptoms following DEET's use by the military in the Persian Gulf War. With heavy exposure to DEET and other insecticides, humans may experience memory loss, headache, weakness, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, tremors and shortness of breath. These symptoms may not be evident until months or even years after exposure. The most severe damage occurs when DEET is used concurrently with other insecticides, such as permethrin, for prolonged and frequent periods of time. |
| *Be wary of using insect repellant containing DEET on children. Children are more susceptible to subtle brain changes caused by chemicals in their environment because their skin more readily absorbs them. Also, their still-developing nervous systems are more potently affected. For the same reasons, *NEVER use insect repellant containing DEET on infants. *Be aware that DEET can be present in commonly used preparations like insecticide-based lice-killing shampoos. Use the same precautions with such preparations as you would with insect repellant. *Do not combine insecticides with each other or use them while using other medications. Even an over-the-counter antihistamine could interact with DEET to cause toxic side effects. |
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