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Dengue fight: When is too much fogging unsafe?

I am writing to highlight the need for the National Environment Agency (NEA) to put out recommendations on the frequency of fogging in private residential areas.

The writer urges the National Environment Agency to issue guidelines on the frequency of fogging in private residential areas.

The writer urges the National Environment Agency to issue guidelines on the frequency of fogging in private residential areas.

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June Cheah Nicholls

I am writing to highlight the need for the National Environment Agency (NEA) to put out recommendations on the frequency of fogging in private residential areas.

I live in the Tanglin View condominium (Management Corporation Strata Title 2633) and sit on the council.  

In July, the chairman ordered that the compound undergo fogging against mosquitoes every week. This was on top of a routine fortnightly contract for the work.

While it has since reverted to a fortnightly affair, the regularity of such operations could have health implications for those in the area as the chemicals linger for many days.

Last week, reports emerged that neurotoxins from mosquito fumigation may have resulted in some American and Canadian diplomats and their families falling ill in Havana, Cuba’s capital, from 2016 to 2018.

I had raised concerns about the frequency of fogging in the condominium. Yet these fell on deaf ears, with the managing agent arguing that the chemicals were water-based and its vapours were not harmful. 

NEA does not spell out the frequency at which fogging in private housing estates is safe.

The agency should put out reminders that fumigation or fogging is the last resort and not the be-all and end-all in keeping mosquitoes at bay. Vector control, such as oiling and cleaning drains, remains the most effective means of dealing with mosquito-breeding.

Have views on this issue or a news topic you care about? Send your letter to voices [at] mediacorp.com.sg with your full name, address and phone number.

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