Mosquito coil fumes can be deadly

by Carol Aloysius

The Head of the Toxicology Poisons Information Unit of the National Hospital, Dr. Waruna Gunathilake has warned the public to beware of long exposure to mosquito coils.

“Mosquito coils contain several chemicals which cause indoor pollution.”

“The toxic fumes emanating from them can cause short term health problems such as sneezing, coughing, wheezing and headaches, while long term exposure can result in bronchial asthma, respiratory problems and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases”, he said.

When coils are lit they release these toxic chemicals into the air with greater force. Those exposed to fumes that emanate from them, in closed circuit environments where windows and doors are closed and there is no ventilation, will be at greater risk of developing these diseases. “Young children and elderly persons are at risk due to their low immunity levels”, he said.

Labels on mosquito coil boxes do not provide the exact chemical compositions of the coils which changed when lit. “The danger lies in the fumes people inhale. Scientific research has proved this beyond doubt”, he said.

His unit would highlight this ‘hidden danger’ with other health risks not easily visible to the eye, to the public during the National Poisons Prevention Week (November 10-16).