Mosquitoes are a household name in every community in Ghana. This has led to the rise of several brands of mosquito products in the Ghanaian Society as in many African countries. In the Ghanaian society , mosquitoes are an ‘all year round’ discomfort. Their presence can be felt in every season; in the rainy season and in the dry seasons.
The burning of a mosquito coil to keep away mosquitoes have become an innate part of many households in the Ghanaian society. The sight and smell of several aromas of mosquito coils is a mainstay all year round in Ghana.
How Does it Work
Mosquito coils are usually burned to produce an aromatic smoke which is supposed to drive mosquitoes and other insects away. The coil is made up of a mixture of substances. Mosquito coils are not only made for mosquitoes, they are also effective for killing other flying insects. The purpose of the mosquito coil is to kill the insects and or to make them too weak to bite humans in order to prevent the dreaded malaria disease.
Concerns
There are several public health risks associated with mosquitoes. Mosquito -borne pathogens kills more than half a million people and makes many more people sick. It is especially dangerous for children and can leave them disabled in instances where their lives are spared.Experts have pointed that mosquito coils may be used to control mosquito born diseases , however there are concerns about the adverse health effects associated with the burning of mosquito coils indoors. The smoke that emits from the burning of the coil ,especially in closed units is a cause for concern.
Risks
The amount of exposure to the smoke produced from a burning coil could pose serious health issues such as common cold, breathing problems, headaches and in extreme cases lung cancer.
Finding the Balance
It is much safer to burn the mosquito coils outside or in open spaces as compared to burning them inside. Though the smoke may help knock off that one stray mosquito in the bedroom whose buzz is interrupting you sleep, the health consequences have to be considered. There are other alternative like mosquito repellent and mosquito sprays which can be used to keep mosquitoes in check.
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