How Can Families Reduce the Risk of Exposure to DEET?
If your doctor finds that you have been exposed to significant amounts of DEET, ask whether your children might also be exposed. Your doctor might need to ask your state health department to investigate.
It is possible to transfer DEET from your hands onto food. Encourage good hygiene practices (e.g., hand-washing) to minimize this possible route of exposure and be careful not to overspray and contaminate foods, utensils, etc. when applying DEET-containing products from aerosol dispensers. Do not apply to young children's hands or around the mouth. Children under 10 years of age should not apply DEET by themselves. Do not re-use DEET product containers, especially for storing food and water. Many consumer repellents contain DEET as an active ingredient. Check the label of these products and follow the instructions listed below regarding the proper use, disposal, and application of DEET. In general, do not apply DEET near your mouth or eyes and do not apply over cuts or irritated skin. Do not apply it under clothing, and wash clothing that has been sprayed with DEET before wearing it again. When applying DEET to the facial area, first apply to your hands, then rub the product onto your face, and then wash your hands. Avoid direct spraying to the face as this could cause the product to get into your eyes, mouth, or lungs. To avoid overexposure, be sure to remove DEET product before going to bed (shower or use a wash cloth to remove from skin).