On Thu, 8 Apr 2004, Marshall Ruskin wrote:

> 2.    There's been a lot of work done in scientifically evaluating mosquito
> repellents, because of the danger of West Nile virus, which is transmitted
> by mosquitos. The main thing to look for, is the highest fraction of DEET
> possible in your product of choice.
>
> There is a product in Canada that is almost pure DEET, and it really works
> and works well!
>
> Just don't get any on a painted surface, as it is a strong organic solvent.

DEET is definitely the best widely-available option, but it has some
disadvantages, such as being a strong organic solvent. :)

I have a great uncle who's a University of Florida entymologist, and he
developed a repellant with natural compounds that supposedly works better
than DEET (it has for me, FWIW.)  The specific blend is called Geraniol,
and I've seen it now and again in some Michigan megastores like Meijer.
Used to be branded MosquitoSafe.

It's quite smelly, but without the whole "walking chemical plant" aroma
of DEET products.

ian Butler / ian@bluemoon.hplx.net
'88 Audi 5000S quattro
'88 VW Scirocco 16v
'87 VW Vsnagon GL syncro -- waiting for you on eBay
'77 Mercury Marquis -- for sale