Stop Using Naphthalene Balls for Water and Disease Treatment- FDA

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has warned the public about the detrimental nature of naphthalene balls when abused, as reported to be used for water and disease treatments.

The Authority confirmed that the white, volatile and small balls could be used as household chemical substances for repelling insects.

However, it’s realized the substance is being used by a section of the public in the purification of drinking water, and for the treatment of stomach aches, measles, and diarrhoea.

“These forms of usage other than repelling insects may cause serious harm to the users. The public is, therefore, strongly advised to desist from that,” the FDA warned in a statement.

The abuse of the balls could result in severe anaemia, respiratory tumours, reproductive problems, headaches, nausea, sweating, jaundice, confusion, malaise, abdominal pains, eye, and nose irritations, it furthered.

Additionally, the Authority said the continuous release of these balls into water bodies and the environment can have dire consequences on aquatic life.

“The FDA, therefore, urges the public to desist from the unapproved use of naphthalene balls and adhere to only the approved use as a household chemical substance solely approved for repelling insects and pests.”