mosquito incense sticks Image Credit source: Getty Images
To avoid mosquitoes at home, many people use mosquito incense sticks, coils and smoke repellents. These products help in keeping mosquitoes away, but it is not necessary that every product is completely safe. The smoke of some non-government approved or unusual products can have adverse effects on breathing and lungs. Especially children, elderly people and asthma or allergy patients may face more problems due to this.
recently national dengue day But the ongoing HICA survey has further increased this concern. According to the report, many families have been using such products daily for a long time, while some of them do not even have the required government registration number. In such a situation, it is important to know which products can be more risky, what effect their smoke can have on the body and what things should be kept in mind to stay safe.
What did the report reveal and which mosquito repellents are more risky?
Home Insect Control Association (HICA) This survey was conducted by market research company Kantar in 12 cities. 1,264 families and 405 doctors were included in this. According to the report, 70 percent doctors described illegal mosquito incense sticks as a major respiratory hazard, while 67 percent doctors considered their smoke as harmful as cigarette smoke.
According to experts, products which do not have Central Insecticides Registration (CIR) number written on them should be avoided. Unlabeled local and unusual brands may pose a greater risk as information about the chemicals used in them may not be clear.
What effect can the smoke of incense sticks have on health?
Burning mosquito incense sticks with continuous smoke can cause difficulty in breathing, cough, burning sensation in the chest and sore throat. Some people may also complain of eye irritation and headache.
This smoke can increase symptoms in patients with asthma, allergies and COPD. Its effect on the sensitive lungs of children and the elderly can be more serious.
Dr. Sanjeet Sasidharan
What to do to stay safe? what do doctors say
While buying mosquito repellent, definitely check the CIR registration number on the pack. Avoid unlabeled and unbranded products. Make arrangements for ventilation in the room and do not smoke continuously in the rooms of children and elderly people.
S.L. Dr. Sanjeet Sasidharan of Raheja Hospital According to this, only government approved and safety tested products should be used. Alternatives like mosquito nets and window nets can also be useful.
