Publication Type: | Journal Article |
Year of Publication: | 2007 |
Authors: | D. V. Canyon, Speare R. |
Journal: | International Journal of Dermatology |
Volume: | 46 |
Issue: | 4 |
Pagination: | 422 - 426 |
Date Published: | 2007 |
Keywords: | DEET, repellent |
Abstract: | Background Pediculosis, caused by head lice (Pediculidae: Pediculus humanus var. capitis), is experiencing a global resurgence, with the prevalence in primary schools averaging as high as 40% in some areas regardless of socioeconomic factors. Control efforts using chemical treatments are becoming increasingly ineffective, with insecticide resistance recorded in several countries. Prevention using repellents and oils would be useful if they limited transmission. Many commercially available substances reputedly have effective repellent qualities, but remain untested.Methods This study tested the preventative efficacy of N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) against several commercially available botanicals to clarify their value as transmission inhibitors, irritants, repellents, and antifeedants. |