Are permethrin-impregnated uniforms safe?
Permethrin-impregnated uniforms are safe to wear and protect against more than 60 diseases spread by insects. Both the Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps and the Surgeon General of the U.S. Army have officially approved the safety and protective necessity of factory permethrin-treated uniforms. A small number of servicemembers have experienced adverse reactions, such as short term mild rashes or sensations of warm skin. To avoid such reactions, do not treat underwear or caps/hats. Avoid permethrin contact with face and eyes and try not to breath in spray vapors. Wear rubber gloves when handling wet, treated uniforms and when mixing permethrin solutions. Permethrin can be very toxic to fish and aquatic organisms; do not let runoff contaminate local water sources.
