Although insecticides can be an effective means for adults in the fight against mosquitoes, they are risky for babies and children. According to scientific studies, children who have been exposed to insecticides for a long time are at greater risk of cancer, hormonal and immunity disorders. Products and devices that contain these chemicals, such as an anti-mosquito plug or wristband, are therefore best banned.

What is possible?

The best way to protect your child from mosquitoes is by creating a physical barrier: at night and during naps, you can hang a mosquito net above the bed. As a result, the mosquito cannot get to your child. Window screens in the baby or children’s room can also be an option. Although long clothing in summer is not an alluring thought, it does help as protection against mosquitoes. So cover your child’s body to the maximum when you go outside. Some studies suggest that dark colors such as black, red and blue are a lure for mosquitoes. Light shades such as white, yellow and green are less attractive.

In addition to long sleeves and trouser legs, you can also put on mittens, gloves, or socks on your child hands and feet. This reduces the uncovered zone. But sometimes even preventive clothing can not prevent mosquito bites. Therefore, it is good to apply mosquito repellent to the uncovered skin before leaving the house.

Insect repellents that are safe for babies and children

Products with DEET are very effective. If you want to use them with children, you have to take into account certain conditions:

• Never use DEET in babies under 2 months of age.
• For children under 2 years of age, you may use DEET products with a maximum concentration of 30%. That is enough in our regions.
• In tropical regions, a concentration of up to 50% is recommended, but only in children from 2 years of age.
• DEET should never get into your nose, mouth or eyes. It is therefore wise not to smear the children’s hands with it.

In addition, mosquitoes do not seem to like lemon air. A range of lemon-scented products are available, although the effect of these products is sometimes questioned and the effect is short-lived. In addition, natural repellents, such as lemon and eucalyptus oil, may not be safe for infants, so they should not be used in children under 3 years of age.

Anti-insect devices with ultrasonic sounds are not toxic, but their effectiveness has not been proven.