Fogging is carried out as an effort to prevent diseases that can be transmitted through mosquito bites, such as dengue fever or malaria. Even so, the negative impact of fogging can also be felt by humans if exposed to large amounts of fogging smoke.
Fogging to kill mosquitoes generally uses pyrethrin and synthetic permethrin insecticide poisons. This chemical is also contained in mosquito repellent sprays that are widely sold in the market.
Negative Impact of Mosquito Fogging
Fogging fog is formed by turning a mixture of insecticide and water into smoke through a machine. The amount of insecticide contained in fogging smoke is very small but sufficient to kill mosquitoes.
In small amounts, inhaled smoke does not cause side effects in humans. However, if inhaled in large quantities, fogging fumes can be detrimental to human health.
The following are some of the possible side effects if a person is exposed to large amounts of fogging fumes:
1. Sore and watery eyes
2. Coughing
3. Difficulty breathing, wheezing
4. Headache
5. skin irritation
6. Weak
In addition, the negative impact of fogging can also be experienced if the toxic liquid hits the skin or is accidentally swallowed.
Not only the above symptoms, exposure to large amounts of insecticides can also cause insecticide poisoning which is characterized by the appearance of several symptoms, namely:
1. Visual impairment
2. Excessive sweating
3. Excessive saliva production
4. Vomiting
5. Hard to breathe
6. Stomach ache
7. Decreased heart rate and blood pressure
For severe enough conditions, insecticide poisoning can cause the sufferer to have seizures to lose consciousness. This condition is classified as dangerous and should be treated by a doctor immediately.
Tips for Preventing Mosquito Fogging Poison Exposure
To prevent the negative effects of fogging, avoid spraying areas. If exposed and experience side effects as mentioned above, immediately rinse the body part that is exposed to fogging fumes with clean water, then change and wash clothes exposed to the smoke.
If fogging is done in or around your home, take the following steps to prevent possible side effects:
1. Empty the tub or water reservoir before spraying.
2. Cover things in the house with newspaper and store items, such as cutlery, clothes, or towels, in a tight place.
3. Do not leave any food or groceries placed in the open.
4. Use a mask during fogging and a few moments after.
5. Open the windows wide to allow air exchange.
6. Clean the surface of furniture or household furniture that is exposed to smoke.
Fogging aims to reduce the mosquito population, so that the risk of disease transmission due to mosquito bites can be reduced. However, this method is not the only way to eradicate mosquitoes.
A preventive activity called 3M Plus is also recommended because it is considered more effective than fogging alone. The 3M Plus movement includes draining tubs and water reservoirs, closing water reservoirs tightly, and reusing used items that have the potential to become mosquito nests.
If you experience the negative effects of fogging that lead to symptoms of insecticide poisoning, immediately consult a doctor so that appropriate treatment can be carried out.