How Safe is a Mosquito Coil?
WouterWhether or not a mosquito coil is safe for your health depends on many factors. However, based on the data available, burning a mosquito coil indoors may cause significant short-term and chronic health risks.
When the mosquito coil burns, it releases a smoke that contains chemicals, carbonyl compounds, free radicals, and metal fumes. This smoke can cause irritation in the nose and eyes, trigger asthma attacks and lung cancer, and trigger a cough. The fine particulate matter in the smoke can irritate the lungs.
The most important hazard of mosquito coils is the fumes they release, which can irritate the lungs and trigger respiratory problems. Studies suggest that the risk of inhaling smoke from a mosquito coil is equivalent to 100 cigarettes.
Moreover, a number of studies have found a link between smoke from mosquito coils and poor health outcomes. In particular, a new study conducted by the Environmental Health Perspectives journal found that the smoke released by a popular brand of mosquito coil emits formaldehyde, a toxic form of formaldehyde that can produce a strong irritant effect in the upper respiratory system.
Despite the risks, mosquito coils remain popular in countries afflicted with malaria. In fact, it is estimated that around 40% of the population of Ghana uses the product on a regular basis.
Unlike cigarettes, which are regulated by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, mosquito coils are not regulated by any regulatory body in the United States or the United Kingdom. However, there are other jurisdictions with similar regulations. In some countries, the use of mosquito coils is banned.
