Caution: Avoid Using Bloom Insecticide - Know The Risks

The Ministry of Health and Safety alerts the public to the dangers of using unregistered insecticides / iStock. The Executive Director, Ndiy...

The Ministry of Health and Safety alerts the public to the dangers of using unregistered insecticides / iStock.

The Executive Director, Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata at the Ministry of Health and Safety warned the public about the unauthorized selling of an unregistered insecticide known as Dichlorovos, which goes by the brand names "Boam" or "Bloom." This insecticide is hazardous and not recommended for domestic use in Namibia.

Therefore, any products claiming to be Boam or Bloom insecticides being sold in our country are unregistered and illegal - Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata.

He is alerting the public to the dangers of using such unregistered insecticides. Dichlorovos is a highly toxic chemical that is commonly used as an insecticide to control pests in crops and livestock. However, it is not approved for use in domestic settings, as it poses a significant risk to human health, especially to children, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

''I urge all members of the public to be cautious when purchasing and using insecticides for domestic purposes. Please ensure that the products you use are registered and authorized by the appropriate regulatory authorities. Always follow the instructions provided on the labels and take necessary precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and using in well-ventilated areas'', asserted Nghituwamata. 

He conclude that if you come across any unauthorized selling of Boam, Bloom, or any other unregistered insecticides, please report it to the Ministry immediately. Your cooperation in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community is greatly appreciated.

About Dichlorovos

Dichlorovos is an organophosphate insecticide and acaricide that is commonly used to control a wide range of pests in agricultural and veterinary applications. Dichlorovos acts as a cholinesterase inhibitor, which means it interferes with the normal functioning of the nervous system in pests by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase.

This leads to the accumulation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, causing overstimulation of the nervous system and eventual paralysis and death of the targeted pests. It is classified as a WHO Class II moderately hazardous pesticide and is regulated in many countries. Its use requires strict adherence to label instructions, proper handling, and protective measures to prevent exposure to humans and non-target organisms.

Due to its toxicity and potential risks, the use of Dichlorovos and other organophosphate insecticides has been restricted in many countries, with emphasis only on integrated pest management (IPM) practices and alternative, less toxic pest control methods in some countries. It is important to always follow the guidelines whenever using Dichlorovos or any other pesticide and to prioritize safety and environmental protection.

The Dichlorvos' chemical structural formulae.

Its chemical name is 2,2-dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate, and its chemical formula is H3C--P--O--CH3 where "Cl" represents chlorine atoms, "H3C" represents a methyl group, and "P" represents a phosphorus atom. The "O" represents an oxygen atom, and the lines ("-") represent chemical bonds between the atoms. This structural formula illustrates the arrangement of atoms in Dichlorvos, which is important for understanding its chemical properties and toxicological effects.

Dichlorovos, found in insecticides like Boam or Bloom, is a highly toxic chemical that can pose serious risks to human health, the environment, and regulatory compliance. It is important to follow all relevant laws and regulations regarding the use of insecticides and to always use authorized products according to label instructions, taking appropriate safety precautions to protect yourself, your family, and the environment.

The use of Boam, Bloom

As mentioned before, the use of Boam or Bloom is primarily used to control insects, mites, and ticks on crops such as fruits, vegetables, and field crops, as well as in livestock and poultry production. It is also used as a larvicide to control mosquitoes in certain settings, and as a veterinary medicine to control internal and external parasites in animals.

However, Dichlorovos is not recommended and not authorized for domestic purposes. These products may pose that can pose serious health risks to humans, animals, and the environment, as Dichlorovos is a highly toxic chemical. The use of unregistered insecticides, including Boam or Bloom, can lead to:

1. Health hazards: Dichlorovos can cause adverse health effects, such as nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, convulsions, coma, or even death. Children, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions may be particularly vulnerable.
2. Environmental hazards: Dichlorovos can have detrimental effects on the environment, including aquatic contamination, toxicity to non-target organisms, and long-term ecological impacts. This can harm aquatic life, beneficial insects, bees, and other pollinators, which are important for ecosystem health and food production.
3. Legal and regulatory risks: The sale and use of unregistered insecticides, including Boam or Bloom, are illegal and can result in legal and regulatory consequences. The unauthorized selling of unregistered insecticides can undermine regulatory efforts to control and monitor the use of hazardous chemicals and may result in penalties and fines.

These insecticides are commonly used by crop growers to control pests/ Adobe Photo.

It is important to always use authorized and registered insecticides that have undergone proper safety testing and are approved for the intended use. Follow all label instructions, take appropriate safety precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and using in well-ventilated areas, and properly store and dispose of insecticides according to local regulations. 

The hidden dangers of using Bloom insecticides for cockroaches in your home. Many people have turned to using Bloom insecticides as a solution to combat cockroach infestations in their homes. While it can be frustrating to see these unwelcome pests invading your living space, resorting to harsh chemicals like Bloom Insecticides may pose significant risks that are often overlooked.

It is important to understand that Bloom insecticides, like many other chemical pesticides, contain toxic ingredients that can be harmful to human health. These chemicals are designed to be toxic to pests, including cockroaches, by disrupting their nervous systems and eventually causing death. However, they can also pose risks to humans, especially when used improperly or in excessive amounts.

Exposure to Bloom insecticides can lead to a range of health hazards, such as skin irritation, eye irritation, respiratory issues, and even more severe effects like poisoning. Children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions may be particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of these toxic chemicals.

If you suspect unauthorized selling of unregistered insecticides, including Boam or Bloom, report it to the appropriate authorities immediately. Your safety, as well as the safety of the environment, should always be a top priority when using any type of pesticide.