Reported 9 months ago
As summer approaches, the issue of mosquitoes becomes a headache for many. With various insect repellents available in the market, how should one choose? A pharmacist pointed out that the most effective insect repellent recognized by the Ministry of Health and Welfare is the one containing DEET. Although it has neurotoxicity, at appropriate concentrations, it can effectively repel mosquitoes. Different age groups should choose DEET concentrations accordingly, with adults not exceeding 50%, children over two months old at 10-30%, and infants under two months old not recommended to use insect repellents. Natural essential oil-based repellents are not government-certified, may have less noticeable effects, and complex components that can cause allergies, hence caution is advised in children. DEET, Picaridin, and Icaridin are approved active ingredients in repellents, with Picaridin offering longer protection and milder odor than DEET. Icaridin, despite being rare in the market, is suitable for children over 2 years old. The article also emphasizes the importance of taking preventive measures against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever, where Taiwan has over 130 mosquito species, advising proper water management in containers to prevent mosquito breeding.
Source: YAHOO