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EPA Helps Americans Get Ready for Summer with Insect Repellents

Release Date: 05/18/2010
Contact Information: Dale Kemery kemery.dale@epa.gov 202-564-7839 202-564-4355

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 18, 2010

WASHINGTON – The arrival of warmer weather signals the return of biting insects. Recognizing that, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which regulates pesticides, has updated its insect repellent Web page. By reading and following label directions, the use of repellents can reduce or eliminate the discomfort of insect bites. Ticks can transmit serious diseases such as lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other serious diseases. Repellents also curtail the spread of such mosquito-borne diseases as St. Louis encephalitis and West Nile virus.

The Web page serves as a one-stop-shop for information on registered repellents. It provides up-to-date listings of mosquito and tick repellents as well as tips for choosing the right product to meet your needs. One of the key features of the revamped Web page is easy access to information about protection time. It will help people choose the right product for the length of time they will be outdoors.

For best results, use only insect repellents registered by EPA. When used according to instructions on the label, registered products have been shown to be effective.

More information on insect repellent: https://www.epa.gov/repellentfinder