DEET

DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) is a slightly yellow oil. It is the most common active ingredient in insect repellents. It is intended to be applied to the skin or to clothing, and provides protection against tick bites, mosquito bites, and other insects.

History

DEET was developed by the United States Army, following its experience of jungle warfare during World War II. It was originally tested as a pesticide on farm fields, and entered military use in 1946 and civilian use in 1957. It was used in Vietnam and the Korean War.

Usage

DEET is used by 200 million people every year. DEET is available to the public in a variety of repellents, in concentrations up to 100%. In rare cases, DEET has been reported to impair the nervous system, with symptoms such as seizures, tremors, and slurred speech.

Safety

DEET is generally safe for use on skin, but it can cause skin reactions in rare cases. It is not recommended for use on children under two months of age. DEET is toxic to birds and aquatic life. DEET has been classified by the EPA as a Group D chemical, not classifiable as a human carcinogen.

See also

• Insect repellent
• Pesticide
• United States Army
• World War II
• Vietnam War
• Korean War
• EPA

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