August 5, 2005

MEDIA ADVISORY: Knowing the Difference Between Pesticides and Repellants

The Blue Ridge Poison Center at the University of Virginia Health System wants everyone to know the difference between pesticides and insect repellants, and to use each product safely.

Female mosquitoes, which need to feast on blood in order to produce eggs, are attracted to people by skin odors and carbon dioxide from our breath. Insect repellants contain a chemical which makes people difficult for mosquitoes to locate, and unattractive for feeding. Repellents do not kill mosquitoes. To use insect repellants safely, always read the label carefully and use the following safety guidelines:

  • Apply only to exposed skin and outer clothing.
  • Avoid eyes and mouth; avoid breathing the spray.
  • Do not spray near food, nor eating or cooking utensils.
  • Don’t let young children spray themselves, and avoid spraying their hands.

Pesticides and insecticides are chemicals that kill insects in your home or garden. A wide variety of products are available for many different insect problems. all of them are potentially poisonous if they are ingested, inhaled, absorbed through the skin or if they come  in contact with a person’s eyes. To safely use pesticides:

  • Never apply a pesticide to your skin to prevent mosquito bites.
  • Read the label every time you use the product. Do not rely on your memory. Follow the instructions carefully.
  • Wear protective clothing to prevent skin exposure.  Note: leather gloves or shoes may absorb pesticides, which may then be absorbed into your skin.
  • Measure carefully according to directions. Do not assume that using twice as much product will do twice the job.
  • Never use the same dishes to measure or contain pesticides that you use in your kitchen.
  • Measure, mix, and use pesticides in a well-ventilated area.
  • Clean tools and dispose of containers or unused product according to the label.

Any of the following may be symptoms of pesticide poisoning:

  • Skin redness, swelling, blistering, or itching.
  • Stinging or swelling of the eyes, nose, mouth, or throat.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, or drooling.
  • Excessive fatigue, headache, or muscle twitching.

If someone develops any of these symptoms after exposure to a pesticide, bring the label of the product with you to the phone and call the Blue Ridge Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.

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