Mosquito repellents and respiratory health: What you need to know

Chemicals in repellents

Allethrin and prallethrin are synthetic forms of natural pesticides that are used in mosquito coils and vaporisers. Despite their effectiveness, prolonged indoor usage may be harmful to people.

Long-term health risks

Extended exposure to repellent vapours, especially in poorly ventilated spaces, can cause respiratory issues, headaches, and eye discomfort, especially in children and those with asthma.

Warning about indoor pollution

Coils release smoke that can cause indoor pollution, which has consequences similar to smoking many cigarettes. Over time, this presents a significant risk to lung health.

Maintain a safe distance

To reduce direct inhalation, repellents should be positioned a few feet away from beds. This guarantees efficacy without endangering sleepers due to elevated chemical concentrations.

Ventilation is essential

When applying repellents, always keep a window slightly open. This lessens the accumulation of dangerous gases and the likelihood of chemical exposure or respiratory discomfort.

Switch it off

Avoid leaving repellents on all night. After the mosquitoes have left, turn them off after a few hours, especially if the room is tiny or poorly ventilated.

There are safer substitutes

As chemical-free substitutes for coils and plug-ins, use mosquito netting, citronella oils, or electric zappers put on the ceiling. When used properly, they are both safer and more effective.

Use repellents sparingly