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Q: What type of protection should I consider
for my family and me?
A: Take an integrated pest management approach. If using pest control
products, make sure they are federally registered, and used appropriately.
When reading the label of a personal insect repellent and mosquito
control products, look for "PCP" and a number beside it. If the
product has a PCP number, then it has been registered for sale in
Canada. Prior to its sale, the product is reviewed by Health Canada.
Be sure to follow the directions - that way you will be sure to
use the product safely and effectively.
Q: I've heard that popular remedies - fabric
softener, bananas, soya sauce -- can help stop mosquitoes. Is that
true?
A: There is no documented, scientific proof that any of these work. To ensure you are protecting yourself and your family, look for a federally registered pest control product (PCP) number on your personal insect repellent and mosquito contro.These products have been evaluated by Health Canada to ensure safety and efficacy.
Q. What repellent should I use?
A. Choice of insect repellent depends on the length of time you are usually out and the age of the person using the product. Always look for a PCP number and read the label for information on how to use the product safely.
Q. Can DEET repellents be used on children?
A. Health Canada's Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) completed
their re-evaluation of personal insect repellents containing DEET
and have developed new use guidelines for products containing DEET.
Since no immediate health concerns were identified during the re-evaluation
of DEET, retail sales of products with more than 30% DEET can continue
to be sold until December 31, 2003.
Children under 6 months of age
- Do not use insect repellents containing DEET.
On Children 6 months to 2 years
- Only use products that contain 10% DEET or less.
- 1 application per day may be considered in situations where high risks of complications from insect bites exist.
- Avoid prolonged use.
On Children 2-12 years of age
- Products containing up to 30% DEET are available for use.
For more info:
www.deetonline.org
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