DEET
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DEET is an insect-repellant chemical (chemical name N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide or N,N-diethly-3-methylbenzamide). It is intended to be applied to the skin or to clothing, and is primarily used to protect against insect bites. In particular, DEET protects against tick bites (which transmit Lyme disease) and mosquito bites (which transmit West Nile disease and malaria).
DEET was developed by the United States Army, following its experience of jungle warfare during World War II. It entered military use in 1946 and civilian use in 1957.
Tests have shown DEET to be the most effective and long-lasting insect repellant available. Studies into the health effects of DEET have not shown any significant harm to human health (other than for those who are allergic to DEET), but concerns arising from its chemical composition mean that care should be taken in its application. Current mainstream medical opinion is that any dangers posed by DEET are greatly outweighed by those of the serious insect-borne diseases which DEET helps prevent.
It should be noted than DEET solutions of 50% or more will damage plastics, and it is not unknown for wearers of the 80% "professional" formulations available in some countries to find the vinyl seat material in their Jeeps being dissolved by the spray on their legs.
External links
- US Centers for Disease Control information on DEET (http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/qa/insect_repellent.htm)
- US Environmental Protection Agency information on DEET (http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/chemicals/deet.htm)
DISCLAIMER
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