During mosquito season, many people keep repellents like coils, plug-ins, and vaporizers on all night. While these products offer protection from diseases such as dengue and malaria, experts caution against their continuous overnight use, especially in enclosed, poorly ventilated rooms.
Dr. Chaitanya Kulkarni from Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital explains that most repellents use chemicals like allethrin and prallethrin-synthetic compounds derived from natural pyrethrins. While these help ward off mosquitoes, they can cause headaches, throat irritation, and eye soreness if inhaled for long hours. Children, people with respiratory issues, or those with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable.
Dr. Pooja Pillai of Aster CMI Hospital adds that while these devices are designed for extended use, prolonged exposure-especially close to sleeping areas-can cause health concerns. Coils, in particular, produce smoke that contributes to indoor pollution, potentially as harmful as secondhand cigarette smoke.
To minimize risks, experts recommend placing the repellent device 2–3 meters away from the bed and not sleeping directly beneath it. Leaving a window slightly open can help ventilate the room. It's also advisable to turn the device off after a few hours once the mosquitoes have cleared.
As safer alternatives, mosquito nets, citronella-based natural repellents, and electric zappers are suggested. Ultimately, while repellent use is important for disease prevention, ensuring safety through careful placement and limited exposure is key to avoiding side effects.
