Use Of Mosquito Repellents

There are two main types of mosquito repellents:

• Topical repellents – applied to the skin or clothing.
• Spatial repellents – release mosquito-repelling ingredients into the surrounding air to create a protected space.

Topical Repellents

Topical repellents are applied directly to exposed skin or clothing to help prevent mosquito bites. They are available as sprays, lotions, creams and wipes.

NEA-registered topical repellents contain one of the following active ingredients:

• DEET (also known as N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide or Diethyltoluamide)  
• Picaridin (also known as Icaridin or Hydroxyethyl isobutyl piperidine carboxylate)   
• IR3535  (also known as Ethyl butyl acetylaminopropionate)  

Studies have shown that repellents containing these active ingredients generally provide longer-lasting protection than natural repellents made from plant-based ingredients such as citronella, eucalyptus and other essential oils.

 Choosing a topical repellent

• Choose a repellent based on how long you need protection, where you will be going, and the manufacturer's recommended protection time.
• Sweating, swimming, getting treated skin wet, or rubbing against clothing may reduce protection.
• Reapply according to the product label.

 How to use topical repellents safely

• Always read and follow the instructions on the product label.
• Before first use, test the repellent on a small area of skin. Stop using it if you develop an allergic reaction.
• Apply only enough repellent to cover exposed skin and/or clothing.
• Do not apply to skin with cuts, wounds or irritation.
• If using a spray, hold the bottle about 15 cm from the skin and do not spray directly into the air.
• To apply to the face, dispense the repellent onto your hands first and avoid the eyes and mouth.
• Do not allow children to apply the repellent themselves.
• If using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first followed by the repellent.
• Wash your hands with soap after applying the repellent.
• Do not use expired products.
• For children below 2 years old, use physical protective measures such as mosquito nets or protective clothing where possible.

Spatial Repellents

Spatial repellents release mosquito-repelling ingredients into the surrounding air to create a protected space that helps reduce mosquito bites.

They are available as:

• Mosquito coils
• Electric vaporisers or mats
• Passive emanators

Products containing metofluthrin, transfluthrin, prallethrin, d-allethrin and d-trans allethrin have been shown to reduce mosquito bites. Protection depends on the product used and environmental conditions.

How to use spatial repellents safely

• Always read and follow the product label.
• Avoid direct contact with the product.
• Wash your hands after handling the product.
• Do not leave mosquito coils or electric vaporisers unattended.
• Avoid prolonged or close-range inhalation of fumes or vapours.
• If using indoors, ensure the room is well ventilated.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Keep away from food and animal feed.
• Do not use expired products.
  

Buying Mosquito Repellents

Look for the NEA registration mark when buying mosquito repellents. NEA-registered products have been assessed for safety and efficacy and display the NEA registration logo and registration number. Botanical repellents such as citronella or eucalyptus are not required to be registered with NEA.

Example of a registration logo