Once, a little girl named Rumi. She was just five years old. Every evening, her parents would light a mosquito coil in the room. The smoke from the coil filled the house with a strange smell that Rumi didn't like at all. Her father would say, "This smoke will keep the mosquitoes away, and without mosquitoes, you won't get dengue or malaria." Reassured by his words, Rumi would fall asleep peacefully.
But after a few months, Rumi's cough started. It started
small, then got worse. At night, she would feel as if she couldn't breathe.
When her parents took her to the doctor, the doctor asked, "Rumi has
started having asthma or breathing problems. Is the air inside your house
polluted? Do you use any mosquito coils or repellents?" Her parents were
surprised and replied, "Yes, we do. But it's for keeping the mosquitoes
away." The doctor then explained that while the smoke repels mosquitoes,
it also causes severe damage to the lungs of humans, especially children. In
her parents' attempt to protect her from mosquitoes, Rumi had fallen victim to
a new problem. This story reflects a reality that many of us face every day.
Why Are Mosquito Coils So Harmful?
We often consider mosquito coils to be harmless, but they
are essentially insecticides that are burned. The smoke they release contains
certain chemical substances that pose a serious threat to our health.
Chemical Composition and Their Harmful Effects
The main active ingredient in a mosquito coil is a
pyrethroid-based insecticide, such as allethrin, D-allethrin, or transfluthrin.
Although these chemicals are present in small amounts, they vaporize when
burned and mix with the smoke that permeates the air.
- Pyrethroids:
These chemicals directly affect the nervous system. In humans, long-term
exposure can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, and
neurological weakness. Since children's nervous systems are still
developing, they are at a higher risk. Studies on rats have shown that
this smoke can damage liver and lung cells.
Other components of the coil, such as wood powder, coconut
shell flour, and binders, release other harmful substances when burned.
- Particulate
Matter (PM2.5): This refers to extremely fine particles suspended in
the air, with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers. These particles are
so small that they can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the
bloodstream. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), these
particles are a cause of various respiratory diseases, such as bronchitis,
asthma, and cancer. In terms of air pollution, a single mosquito coil can
be as harmful as 75 to 137 cigarettes, and its formaldehyde emissions can
equal those of 51 cigarettes. Another study found the equivalent to be 51
cigarettes, while an expert stated it was equal to 100 cigarettes.
- Carbon
Monoxide (CO): This is a colorless, odorless gas produced by
incomplete combustion. If it accumulates in an enclosed room, it can
reduce the oxygen supply to the brain, leading to headaches, vomiting, or
even death.
- Formaldehyde
and Benzene: The burning of coils also produces carcinogenic
(cancer-causing) substances like formaldehyde and benzene, which can
increase the risk of cancer with long-term use.
WHO Guidelines and Important Precautions
The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly warned
about the harmful effects of mosquito coils. According to them, indoor air
pollution is a major health risk, and mosquito coils are one of its primary
causes.
- WHO's
Core Message: While the WHO has not banned the use of coils outright,
it has urged special caution. It emphasizes the use of smokeless and
chemical-free alternatives. They also advise against using coils in
enclosed rooms.
Safe and Natural Alternatives to Mosquito Coils
Instead of relying on chemicals, some safe and natural
alternatives can be adopted:
- Mosquito
Nets: This is the safest and most effective method of mosquito
control. It has no side effects and provides complete protection from
mosquito bites.
- Screens
on Windows: Installing screens on windows and doors prevents
mosquitoes from entering the house.
- Natural
Repellents: The use of camphor, neem oil, lemongrass oil, or
eucalyptus oil is safe. Burning camphor in a bowl or using these oils in a
diffuser can keep mosquitoes away.
- Maintain
Cleanliness: Ensure that there is no stagnant water around your home.
Mosquitoes typically breed in stagnant water. Regularly clean old tires,
plastic containers, or broken pots where water might accumulate.
- Mosquito-Repelling
Plants: Keeping plants like basil, mint, lemongrass, or marigolds near
windows can deter mosquitoes. Apply the repellent to skin that is not
covered by clothing Mosquito Repellent Cream Harmful?
Mosquito repellent creams or lotions are typically applied
directly to the skin. They primarily contain chemicals like DEET or Icaridin.
- DEET:
This is a highly effective chemical. However, it can have some side
effects. It may cause irritation, rashes, or allergies on sensitive skin.
Special care should be taken when using DEET on children. It should not be
applied directly to their hands or face, as they may touch their mouths.
In large quantities, DEET can affect the nervous system and, in very rare
cases, cause seizures or coma.
- Icaridin:
It is generally regarded as a safer and less irritating alternative to
DEET. It is also often odorless.
Proper Usage:
- Just
spray it on any skin that isn't covered.
- Avoid
applying it to children's hands or faces.
- Do
not apply it to cuts, wounds, or irritated skin.
- After
coming back inside, remember to wash off the cream with soap and water.
Disclaimer
This is for your information only, not medical advice. It is
essential to consult with a medical professional for any health concerns or
before using any chemical products.
A Final Word of Caution