FOR RELEASE: FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 1998

EPA PROMOTES SAFER USE OF INSECT REPELLENT DEET


New labeling requirements to ensure the safe use of insect repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) have been issued by EPA's Office of Pesticide Programs. EPA is issuing the new labeling requirements as a result of a comprehensive review of the most recent health and safety data available on DEET, the active ingredient in the most widely used insect repellents (used by approximately one-third of the U.S. population each year). Based on its review EPA has determined that DEET, if used as directed, will not pose significant health risks to consumers. However, EPA is requiring changes to current labels to ensure that DEET is applied safely, particularly on children. Specifically, companies that make and distribute DEET products will no longer be able to claim that their products are "child safe," and new labels will direct parents to not allow children to handle this product. Currently, "child safe" claims are allowed on products containing 15% or less of the active ingredient DEET. New directions for use will also include, for example, the following statements: do not use on hands or near eyes and mouth of young children; do not use under clothing; avoid over application of this product; after returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water and wash treated clothing. DEET is registered by EPA for both human and veterinary uses to help prevent bites from mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects that may transmit disease, including Lyme disease, malaria, encephalitis and others. Manufacturers and distributors will be required to incorporate labeling changes within two years. More information on DEET and the use of other insect repellents is available at EPA's Communication Services Branch at 703-305-5017.