Pesky insects lurk around every corner. Mosquitos, ticks, and other biting bugs make using insect repellent a requirement. Despite the numerous options, not all bug sprays were created equal. Discoveries in recent years have led scientists to believe that sprays containing the chemical deet has the potential to do damage to the body if not used correctly. Here are some of the side effects that can be caused by using deet products.

Seizures

The cause for concern first came about in 1989. There were five back to back cases of seizures within a two month span in New York City and Connecticut. Each of these cases were with otherwise healthy individuals who didn’t have any history with seizures. They had varying dosages within varying time frames. Four children and one adult were sent to a pediatric neurologist who concluded that the cause may have been exposure to the deet chemical found within bug spray. As a result, New York City and a couple surrounding cities issued a health alert cautioning the use of repellents using deet. There have been incidences since then that are thought to have been caused by various bug sprays as well. A quick google search can help you dive deeper.

Neurological

According to an article written for phys.org, researchers were quoted as saying, “We’ve found that deet is not simply a behavior-modifying chemical but also inhibits the activity of a key central nervous system enzyme, acetycholinesterase, in both insects and mammals.” The article goes on to say, “[Researchers] say that more investigations are urgently needed to confirm or dismiss any potential neurotoxicity to humans.” Based on current research, there is not enough data to determine whether deet is the sole cause of these neurological reactions. As more studies develop, we will be able to see a more complete picture.

Other Symptoms

In addition the previously mentioned symptoms thought to be caused by deet products, there are less serious symptoms that have been shown as a result of long term use. For example, one article states, “Workers at a national park who used insect repellents or lotions containing deet repeatedly during the summer season complained more often of chest pain or wheezing, muscle cramping, skin rashes and blisters, dizziness, disorientation, and difficulty concentrating than workers who used the products less often or did not use them at all.” It’s worth noting that most government organizations do not recognize deet as a carcinogenic or unsafe chemical when used correctly. All reports in this case are based on inferred absorption which means researchers didn’t physically measure what was sprayed on each individual. Participants were responsible for describing the amount of bug spray they used on themselves which may or may not be accurate.

 

Protection against insect bites shouldn’t come at the cost of your physical and neurological health. Do extensive research to find the products that are best for you and your family. Stay safe and enjoy the outdoors this summer.