Good News on the Mosquito Repellent Front

Better than DEET and less toxic, too:

A chemical that resembles natural products from black pepper can deter mosquitoes four times longer than DEET, the world’s most widely used bug repellent.

The new substance could be used to protect people who live in the developing world, or to shield soldiers from insects when they deploy to countries with pest problems.

“Our goal is to reduce disease transmission,” said USDA synthetic chemist Maia Tsikolia, here at the American Chemical Society meeting. “It’s very important for the American military, actually for mankind, to have effective repellents.”

Just in time:

The new repellent was discovered at just the right time. Earlier this month, a team of French researchers reported that DEET affects cells in a manner similar to nerve gas, and enhances the toxic effects of a common pesticide. Though the study was preliminary and may not be relevant for humans, it became fodder for dozens of cautionary headlines leaving the public looking for alternatives.

Yikes! I’ve been a carefree DEET user for years. Now they say it’s neurotoxic.