Kenya Introduces New Mosquito-Repellent Candles To Combat Malaria
New environmentally friendly mosquito-repellent candles available in Kenya are the "latest, affordable and effective innovation to curb malaria," The Nation reports. The candles, known as eco-candles, contain pyrethrum, neem and eucalyptus and are specifically designed to kill mosquitoes. The smokeless, non-drip candles burn for about four hours, but their effect can last for eight hours, and they have no side effects. Pyrethrum, a botanical insecticide, attracts mosquitoes and releases an insecticidal vapor. The oil has a rapid paralytic effect on mosquitoes. Neem affects the behavior and physiology of mosquitoes -- especially their feeding, growth and mating habits -- and purifies the air. Eucalyptus has a repellent effect on mosquitoes and other biting insects and affects their locomotive and feeding behavior. The oil mixture in the candles is vaporized once the candle is lit, and mosquitoes are disabled or killed after a few hours. Burning two candles at dusk is the most effective method. Teque Afrique manufactures the candles, which are being stocked in major supermarkets around Kenya (Ngesa, The Nation, 8/23).
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