Reduction of mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae) attacks on a human subject by combination of wind and vapor-phase DEET repellent.
In a Central Michigan wetland setting, air drawn through a DEET-impregnated screen using an electric fan and projected toward a human subject significantly reduced mosquito orientation by 74%, landing by 75%, and probing by 70%, relative to no applied wind or DEET. The DEET vapor effect was significant as revealed by a statistically significant wind/DEET interaction. The wind speed at the downwind human subject was 0.6 m/s and the DEET vapor concentration was estimated at 2 microg/liter air. We suggest a combination of directed wind and volatile repellent might be developed as a mosquito deterrent strategy for the backyard setting.
Hoffmann
Eric J
EJ
Department of Entomology and Center for Integreated Plant Sytems, Michigan State University, East lansing, MI 48824, USA.
Miller
James R
JR
D000818:Animals; D009033:Culicidae / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D003671:DEET / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007299:Insect Bites and Stings / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007302:Insect Repellents / Q000633:toxicity*; D008824:Michigan; D014919:Wind
D007302:Insect Repellents; D003671:DEET