With the announcement of another dengue case on Guam, the Department of Public Health and Social Services has released an advisory for those planning to go outdoors this Halloween.
DPHSS recommends the following simple steps for an enjoyable and safe Halloween:
* Use insect repellent with EPA-approved active ingredients like DEET, Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the US), IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-methane-diol (PMD) or 2-undecanone;
* Wear light-colored long-sleeved shirts and long pants;
* Always follow the product label instructions;
* Re-apply insect repellent as directed; and
* Do NOT spray repellent on the skin under the clothing.
Tips for babies and children
* Always follow instructions when applying insect repellent to children;
* Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months old;
* Instead, dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs;
* Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting;
* Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children under 3 years old; and
* Adults: Spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face. Do not apply insect repellent to a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin.
DPHSS advises everyone to be vigilant against mosquito bites to help stop the spread of dengue.
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