Preventing Mosquito Bites

Should you use DEET-containing repellent on children?

Health Canada advises that DEET-containing repellents are not to be used on children under 6 months of age. DEET may be considered for children aged 6 months to 2 years of age if there is a high risk of infection if the child gets bitten. For these children, apply once a day and use sparingly; avoid application to the face and hands. Repellents containing up to 20% icaridin, also known as picaridin are also safe for children 6 months of age and older.

For children 2 to 12 years of age, apply DEET no more than three times a day and use the least concentrated product (10% DEET or less). For children older than 12 years of age and adults, products containing no more than a 30% concentration of DEET will provide sufficient protection. Apply sparingly.

There is no indication that there is a hazard to an unborn or nursing child associated with the use of DEET by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

For more information on insect repellent use for young children, visit caringforkids.cps.ca