FDA warns public on mosquito coils

MANILA, Philippines - Mosquito coils, popularly known as “katol,” can be harmful to one’s health, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) warned yesterday.

The FDA advised the public to be cautious in buying mosquito coils that may contain hazardous substances.

It said unregistered brands of mosquito coils are proliferating in the market.

The use of mosquito coils may ward off diseases caused by mosquito bites. But the FDA said unregistered brands may be harmful to the public.

There are nine brands of mosquito coils that are registered with the FDA and safe for use at home. These are: Emi Katol Mosquito Coil-scented,  Emi Katol Mosquito Coil-regular, Lion Tiger scented Mosquito Killer Coil Lavender, Lion King Mosquito Killer Lavender scented, Patrol Katol Mosquito Coil regular, Pest Off! Mosquito Coil, Royal Mosquito Coil scented, Royal Mosquito Coil regular and Strike Black Mosquito Coil.

“Unregistered mosquito coils may not contain any active ingredient (AI) or may not contain the correct strength of the AI. In effect, it will not be able to ward off or kill mosquito that can bite the victim and, thus may transmit the infectious pathogen it carries,” the FDA explained.

It noted that the safety of the active ingredient has not passed the evaluation and approval of the FDA.

“The active ingredient added in the mosquito coil in high concentration can be hazardous to health when inhaled or accidentally ingested by children,” it added.

The FDA said mosquito coils are designed for use in well-ventilated areas.

It advised consumers to buy only mosquito coils that are registered with the FDA.