Protect your baby or toddler from mosquito bites
It is important to protect babies and toddlers from the harmful diseases some mosquitoes can carry.
Follow these tips to protect your children.
- Dress them in long, light coloured, loose fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs.
- Use mosquito-proof mesh on doors and windows so mosquitoes can’t come inside.
- Use mosquito-proof netting over prams and strollers when outside.
Mosquito repellents
Mosquito repellents are one form of protection for babies and toddlers against mosquito bites, but it is important to follow these recommendations.
- Under 2 months of age - repellents are not recommended.
- From 2 months of age onwards - repellents containing 10% DEET can be used.
- From 12 months of age - repellents containing Picaridin can be used.
- From 3 years of age - repellents containing PMD (p-Menthane-3, 8-diol, the active ingredient in oil of lemon eucalyptus) can be used.
Caution
When protecting babies and toddlers with mosquito repellent, it’s important to:
- Not allow children to apply repellents themselves.
- Avoid applying repellents to hands or near their eyes or mouth.
- Wash their skin and clothes when you go back inside.
- Always read and follow the instructions on the label, especially for babies and pregnant or breastfeeding women.