Last Updated:November 04, 2025, 16:29 IST

Burning mosquito coils indoors releases toxic chemicals that can trigger asthma, allergies, and even increase the risk of lung cancer, especially in children

Inhaling the smoke from the burning of coils exposes the lungs to these chemicals (Image: AI photo)

Climate change is contributing to an increase in mosquito populations. When water stagnates around homes, it becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes, allowing them to lay eggs that develop into larvae. Additionally, warm weather further accelerates their growth. To protect themselves from mosquito bites, many people use chemical-based mosquito coils or liquid vapourisers.

However, mosquito coils can pose serious health risks, warns Dr Salim, a general physician from Warangal. The smoke from these coils not only drives away mosquitoes but also affects human health.

Many people close their doors and light mosquito coils indoors, especially where mosquito activity is high. When coils burn, they release smoke infused with chemicals. Inhaling this smoke exposes the lungs to these chemicals, which can cause respiratory issues such as asthma and allergies.

The smoke may also affect the brain and potentially lead to neurological issues. Moreover, many mosquito coils contain carcinogenic substances, which increase the risk of lung cancer.

Children are especially vulnerable. In homes where coils are used, children may suffer from respiratory problems, eye irritation, headaches, nausea, and allergies.

Direct exposure to coil smoke can also lead to skin rashes. Those with pre-existing allergies should avoid inhaling it. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a lung condition caused by restricted airflow, is also more commonly observed in people who frequently use mosquito coils. Dr Salim emphasises that avoiding mosquito coils and chemical repellents can significantly reduce health risks.

Instead, he recommends adopting natural methods to control mosquitoes. Keep surroundings clean and avoid water stagnation. Use mosquito nets at home. Battery-operated mosquito bats are also an effective chemical-free option for killing mosquitoes.

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Many people close their doors and light mosquito coils indoors, especially where mosquito activity is high. When coils burn, they release smoke infused with chemicals. Inhaling this smoke exposes the lungs to these chemicals, which can cause respiratory issues such as asthma and allergies.

The smoke may also affect the brain and potentially lead to neurological issues. Moreover, many mosquito coils contain carcinogenic substances, which increase the risk of lung cancer.

Children are especially vulnerable. In homes where coils are used, children may suffer from respiratory problems, eye irritation, headaches, nausea, and allergies.

Direct exposure to coil smoke can also lead to skin rashes. Those with pre-existing allergies should avoid inhaling it. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a lung condition caused by restricted airflow, is also more commonly observed in people who frequently use mosquito coils. Dr Salim emphasises that avoiding mosquito coils and chemical repellents can significantly reduce health risks.

Instead, he recommends adopting natural methods to control mosquitoes. Keep surroundings clean and avoid water stagnation. Use mosquito nets at home. Battery-operated mosquito bats are also an effective chemical-free option for killing mosquitoes.

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