D-15 Insect Repellent and West Nile Virus, by Jeffrey Reed

Up until a few years ago, the only threats facing a golfer were bogeys, a sunburn, dehydration and a stiff lower back. Today, the deadly West Nile virus has changed not only the habits of the golfing population, but also the way everyone enjoys the outdoors. Though the odds are low, a simple round of golf could conceivably prove fatal. 

In fact, West Nile virus was first isolated in 1937, in Uganda. A mosquito-borne virus, West Nile can cause fever, muscle weakness, a stiff neck, confusion, severe headache, and sudden sensitivity to light in its early stages. It can also kill you. People with weakened immune systems, such as the sick and elderly, are most at risk of death. While only one in 150 people will develop encephalitis – swelling of the brain with symptoms ranging from fever to coma – everyone is at risk. Health units world-wide recommend the following measures to avoid mosquito breeding grounds, and to avoid mosquito bites: 

- Empty and avoid any source of stagnate water, including cans, flower pots, abandoned tires, pool covers and wading pools, bird baths, tire swings, wheelbarrows, eaves troughs, rain barrels, and litter such as empty pop bottles and cans 
- Avoid the outdoors during dawn and dusk – prime time for mosquito feeding 
- Cut shrubs, bushes and grass, and avoid wooded areas, where adult mosquitos rest during non-biting hours 
- Repair or replace damaged window and door screens 
- Wear light-coloured clothing, long sleeves, long pants, and socks: keep covered 
- Use an insect repellent containing the chemical DEET 

While the source of some debate, DEET (short for N,N-diethyl-mtoluamide) is a common and effective mosquito repellent. Registered for use in Canada 20 years after West Nile virus was first isolated in Uganda, DEET concentration should not surpass 30 per cent for adults, and should not be greater than 10 per cent for children. There are approximately 130 available products, such as Off! and Muskol, which contain the product.

Another product, D-15 Insect Repellent spray, is one of the most effective sprays on today’s market. D-15 will repel biting insects for four hours – just about the same time it will take you to complete a round of golf. The spray contains 15 per cent active ingredients – 14.25 per cent DEET, .075 per cent related isomers. It resists wipe-off, perspiration and water, and is non-greasy plus pleasantly scented. Simply hold the can 15 to 20 cm away, and apply sparingly (not under clothing, and not on rayon, acetate or dynel). When applying to your face, spray D-15 on your hands, and avoid your eyes and mouth.

A 275 g spray can of D-15 Insect Repellent retails for just $13. For more information, contact (800) 265-5470, or visit www.quixtarcanada.ca.

The general consensus amongst researchers: most people can use a DEET product without any adverse affect, while only minor complications will affect others. In the meantime, if you haven’t cured your hook or your slice, you may think twice about searching for that new Titleist hiding deep in the woods, where mosquitoes may be ready to make you their next victim.