Q: I am 75 years old. I am concerned about protecting myself against mosquito bites to avoid getting the West Nile virus. I have heard people over 70 should not use mosquito repellent products that contain more than 30 percent DEET. What do you suggest?
A: I have not heard that insect repellents containing DEET are any worse for older individuals than younger adults. There is more concern for young children and babies.
Health Canada suggests that you do not use DEET-containing products at all in babies less than six months of age. Between the ages of six months and two years, only one application per day should be considered and only if they live in an area where there is a high risk for mosquito bites and West Nile virus. The product used should contain 10 percent DEET or less. In children between two and 12 years of age, the weakest solutions can be used up to three times per day.
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Concentrations of DEET don’t affect how well the product works, but there is a difference in the length of time it lasts. A 30 percent DEET repellent lasts up to 6.5 hours. It lasts five hours for 15 percent, three hours for 10 percent and two hours for five percent. Some safety tips for using these products include:
- Avoid the eyes. If you get any in your eyes, rinse with water immediately.
- Avoid breathing in the spray. Hold your breath when applying and do not use inside closed areas like tents. I prefer to use the wipe-on type rather than the spray.
- Wash with soap and water after returning indoors.
- If using the combination of sunscreen and insect repellent, do not use liberally like a sunscreen. Put it on thinly.
Knee surgery
Q: I am considering having a knee joint replacement. I know two people who have had blood clots after the surgery. What are the chances of this happening?
A: Blood clots in the veins of the legs are the main complication of knee surgery. The surgeon will prescribe a blood thinner to help prevent clots, but there is still a small risk.
