Are Airborne Mosquito Repellents Safe for Daily Use?

MOSQUITO REPELLENTS GO AIRBORNE: Plug-in vaporizer, spray and diffuser-based mosquito repellents are emerging as popular choices because they are easy to use and effective. They operate by releasing active ingredients into the air that form a protective barrier to repel mosquitoes. While these will reduce bites indoors, particularly those from Culex mosquitoes, questions remain whether long-term daily use is safe, especially in households with children, old adults or pets.

Until now, airborne repellents on the market that repel flying insects include pyrethroids, which are known to effectively repel insects, but also have mild irritant effects when applied to close-quarters, poorly ventilated environments, such as an airplane. Overexposure can occasionally cause headaches, coughing, or allergies in some people. This is a common fallacy with “odorless” repellents, since even those sans stench have chemicals that can be inhaled.

If you’re going to use air mosquito repellents, it’s best to carefully follow product instructions. Ensure good ventilation, keep devices away from sleeping areas and switch them off when not in use. For families looking for an extra layer of protection, combining repellents with physical barriers — such as a bed net or window screens — can cut down on the amount of chemicals that are needed. When used properly, aerial mosquito repellents can be a safe and effective facet of daily mosquito repellents.