Family vacations are meant to create lasting memories – not itchy bug bites that follow your children home. Tropical destinations can create unforgettable family memories, but they can also expose travelers to biting insects and the diseases they may carry. Children often spend more time outdoors than adults on vacation, and they are less likely to notice or avoid biting insects while playing. A few simple precautions can dramatically reduce your child’s risk of insect bites while traveling.
How to Protect Kids from Bites
Exposure to biting insects can happen anywhere outdoors in tropical destinations. Common vacation situations to prepare for include beach outings, pool areas, outdoor restaurants, parks and playgrounds, evening walks, sunset boat tours, and hiking excursions. The first simple line of defense against insects is dressing for protection. Lightweight long sleeves and pants when practical, closed-toe shoes, and avoiding heavily scented lotions or fragrances that may attract insects are all sensible insect protection measures. One of the most effective protection measures, however, is the consistent use of insect repellent.
Choosing a child-friendly insect repellent should be important for every family on vacation. Not all repellents are designed with children in mind. Look for products with strong safety profiles, age-appropriate recommendations, and formulations designed for sensitive skin. Parents should consider lotion formatted repellent products rather than sprays as they allow for more controlled application on their children. Long-lasting protection in a repellent product should be another consideration for parents; don’t stop your child’s fun activities every few hours for reapplication. A longer-lasting product means fewer interruptions to long beach days, outdoor theme parks, and evening activities.
Proper repellent application on children is critical for protecting this vulnerable population. Adults should apply the repellent. Apply to your hands first, then spread onto the child’s skin. Avoid sensitive areas, like eyes and mouth. Also, avoid children’s hands as they could potentially ingest the product. After returning indoors, wash treated skin and clothing. The right insect repellent should be easy for parents to apply and provide confidence that their children are protected during outdoor activities.
IMPEDE Is the Child and Family Friendly Option
IMPEDE is an insect repellent specifically designed with children in mind. Using the active ingredient IR3535®, IMPEDE is DEET-free and designed with a strong safety profile in mind. IMPEDE is suitable for use in children as young as 2 months old. The hypoallergenic formula of IMPEDE is dye-free and safe for sensitive skin. The lotion format of IMPEDE allows for controlled application on its youngest consumers. Utilizing the patented STAYTEC™ technology, which keeps the active ingredient on the skin longer, IMPEDE provides up to 14 hours of protection. The long-lasting protection of IMPEDE means families can confidently enjoy their tropical vacation outings without the need for constant reapplication of repellent.
IMPEDE repellent is readily available for purchase throughout the Caribbean. Travelers can conveniently purchase IMPEDE directly at their destination rather than worrying about packing additional liquids for their trip. Visit the IMPEDE website for convenient locations closest to your vacation spot.
Protecting kids from bug bites doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple precautions and reliable insect protection, like IMPEDE, can help ensure the focus stays on family fun, not insect bites.