Living in a tropical country like the Philippines means protecting your baby from dengue fever during outbreaks every year. Together, let's dive deeper into the essential tips for safeguarding your little ones and the most effective and safest ingredients to look out for in a mosquito repellent.

Understanding Dengue Fever: 

Dengue fever, transmitted by infected mosquitoes, poses a significant health risk, especially during peak seasons in the Philippines. Preventing mosquito bites is crucial for protecting your baby from this potentially life-threatening illness.

Protecting Your Baby During Peak Dengue Season:

• Apply Safe Mosquito Repellent
• Consult Your Pediatrician: Always seek advice before using mosquito repellent on your baby. Avoid adult repellents for newborns.
• DEET-Free Options: Use DEET-free repellents with ingredients like picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Apply to clothing, not skin.
• Dress Appropriately
• Cover Up: Dress your baby in long sleeves, long pants, and socks.
• Use Mosquito Nets
• Protective Barriers: Use nets over cribs and strollers, especially during naps and bedtime.
• Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours
• Timing: Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk.
• Remove Standing Water
• Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Get rid of standing water around your home.

Why DEET Isn't Recommended: 

DEET poses health risks, especially for children, including skin irritation, neurological issues, and toxicity. Safer alternatives, like Picaridin-based repellents, are recommended for your baby's protection.

What Makes Picaridin and Citronella Safer Alternatives:

• Picaridin:
• A synthetic repellent as effective as DEET but without its health risks.
• Safe for babies from 2 months old, offering long-lasting protection.
• Citronella:
• A natural repellent from plant oil, effective against mosquitoes.
• Less long-lasting than synthetic options but is a safer alternative for babies.
• Available in lotions and sprays, ideal during peak dengue season.

To protect your baby during peak dengue season in the Philippines, use safe mosquito repellents like picaridin and citronella instead of DEET. These alternatives provide effective protection with fewer health risks. You can keep your baby safe and comfortable with the right precautions and repellent.

 

For those seeking protection from mosquito bites, consider Bite Block. It provides up to 6 hours of defense against mosquitoes and other insects, all without the use of DEET. Formulated with Picaridin or natural elements like Citronella and Eucalyptus, Bite Block is the safer way to keep mosquitoes at bay!

SOURCES:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Dengue - Preventing Mosquito Bites
• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - Insect Repellent Use and Safety in Children
• World Health Organization (WHO) - Vector-borne diseases
• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - Insect Repellents
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Insect Repellents
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Dengue - Mosquito Control