California Injury Blog
A Northridge family is warning others about a bug repellent contained in wristbands that children can wear to keep insects away.
According to a KCAL news report, the family says their daughter suffered a severe skin reaction from wearing the wristband.
Jen Fox says her daughter suffered
first-degree chemical burns from wearing the band at camp. Fox told KCAL news she was felt angry and betrayed because this is a product that is marketed for children.
Products Marketed for Children
Bug bands sold at Target and other stores are marketed as wristbands that have been proven to repel insects using “naturally derived” ingredients. They are marketed as safe for children older than 3.
But when Fox’s daughter, Ella, wore her band at camp, she woke up with a red mark that went all the way around her wrist her mother says. About two days later, the mark started to swell up and look like a burn. The girl’s pediatrician diagnosed her with a chemical burn, her mother said.
Company officials say most of the complaints have been from consumers who did not use the bands properly. The company recommends that consumers not wear the band while sleeping and that children with sensitive skin not use them.
Fox said he daughter did not wear the band overnight and has no known skin allergies or issues. According to the KCAL report, doctors recommend against using the bands because they tend to put a high concentration of repellent too close to the skin for too long.
Are the Products Dangerous?
Based on this news report, there are number of questions that arise.
What types of chemicals were in the wristband that caused the chemical burns? Did the company do enough to alert consumers about potential side effects? Were the products properly tested? Since the company specifically markets these bug bands for children, were they tested and found to be safe for use by children?
Those who have suffered injuries as a result of using these products may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer. Victims in such cases can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, permanent injuries such as scarring or disfigurement, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
An experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims or families about their legal rights and options.