Insect Repellent Awareness Day: Best Mosquito Repellents for Mosquito Bite Prevention
Observed on June 3
Learn how insect repellent helps prevent mosquito bites and mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus in Los Angeles County. Find the best EPA-registered mosquito repellents, safety tips, and bite prevention guidance from the San Gabriel Mosquito and Vector Control District (SGVmosquito).
What is Insect Repellent Awareness Day?
Launched in 2014, Insect Repellent Awareness Day (also known as Repellent Day) was founded by scientists at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine to help people understand the importance of using repellents both at home and when traveling abroad.
Insect Repellent Awareness Day aims to promote the use of insect repellents to not only prevent bites but the spread of diseases, such as malaria, that can be carried by mosquitoes. Insect repellents can be used in various forms, including sprays, creams, and wipes, and can help prevent mosquito bites.
Look for ONE of the following active ingredients on the label that is safe and effective against biting insects:
- Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
- DEET
- Picaridin
- IR3535
Learn more about mosquito repellent here.
How to Choose the Right Repellent
| Active Ingredient | Works Against Mosquitoes | Works against Black Flies | Good For | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus | Yes | No | Plant-based option | Not for children under 3 |
| DEET | Yes | Yes | Long outdoor activity | Widely used and effective |
| Picaridin | Yes | No | Everyday use | Odorless and non-greasy |
| IR3535 | Yes | No | General protection | Often found as a lotion |
When Should You Wear Repellent?
- During dawn and dusk
- While gardening
- At outdoor events like a family party
- Hiking or camping
- Near standing or running water
- Even during the daytime, for invasive Aedes mosquitoes
In Los Angeles County and the San Gabriel Valley, there are many places for outdoor activities where mosquitoes can be present. Mosquitoes can spread West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases. Wearing insect repellent is one of the best ways residents can protect themselves during peak mosquito season.
Repellent FAQ's
Apply sunscreen first, followed by repellent.
Step 1: Apply sunscreen on exposed skin that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Step 2: Once dry, apply insect repellent over the sunscreen. It should be applied according to the bottle's instructions.
Yes, DEET is safe and effective, as long as you follow the product label. DEET is often confused with DDT, a chemical insecticide that was historically sprayed on crops and in environments to kill insects, but is now banned in most of the world.
Make sure to read the product label and apply as directed.
When using insect repellent on children, consult your child’s pediatrician and follow all product label instructions for safe and effective use.
