CDC Accepts Mosquito Repellant Alternatives

After years of promoting the chemical DEET as the best defense against West Nile-bearing mosquitoes, the government has for the first time accepted the use of an insect repellent made of a natural substance.

Repellents containing the oil of lemon eucalyptus offer "long-lasting protection against mosquito bites," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

The CDC said it still will promote other personal protection measures, such as wearing long-sleeved clothing while outside and disposing of containers of water that could be breeding grounds for the flying insects.

Courtesy of the AP 4/28/2005