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Expert Q&A
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| By John Dorsey, M.D. Pediatrician | ||
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When traveling to a southern state, what type of bug repellant should I buy? I am concerned about West Nile."
Really, the concern is not only southern states these days, but a large portion of states around the country. I am glad to hear you are not letting the West Nile virus dissuade your travel plans, but you can certainly do a few things to help protect your child and yourself.
First of all, find an insect repellant that contains DEET. It's the only proven effective substance to keep mosquitoes away. Usually it should contain concentrations of 20 to 30 percent like most of the major brands.
Secondly, make sure you and your child wear appropriate clothing, and avoid being outside during the hours around sunrise and sunset. That's when they are most active.
Finally, make sure to eliminate the mosquito breeding grounds (stagnant water) you can and stay away from the others.
Generally, the risk of West Nile virus is very low, but not getting bitten is the only sure way to defend against it. Going into the summer of 2003, we can treat the symptoms, but there is still no vaccine to ensure our safety."
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