Perception and use of insect repellent among soldiers in the Singapore Armed Forces

The Singapore Armed Forces currently uses the 75% DEET formulation insect repellent. To study the perception, use, and acceptability of this insect repellent, a survey was carried out on servicemen who had participated in field exercises. Although over 80% of the servicemen knew the proper use of the insect repellent and brought along the army-issued repellent in the field, less than half used this repellent frequently while on exercise. Eighty-three percent felt that the army repellent was only effective sometimes and that it lasted for 4 hours or less. Skin irritation was a common side effect when using the repellent. About 70.4% had used commercial insect repellents and perceived them to be more long lasting and with fewer side effects. The results from our study indicate that the army-issued insect repellent currently used is not totally acceptable to our servicemen. Thus, there is a pressing need to develop or acquire a better insect repellent that is more or just as effective, has fewer side effects in terms of smell and skin irritation, and with an improved mode of delivery, such as aerosol or pump spray.