Last month, you might have seen this very intriguing post on social media. The post claims that a Ugandan man’s, er, um…flatulence kills mosquitoes. This is categorically UNTRUE. Definitely a mosquito control myth.
Snopes reported many inquiries in December 2019, about the validity of the post, which claimed that a resident of Kampala, Uganda, had been approached by insecticide companies to join them in their fight against mosquitoes. The post reported that U.K. tabloid The Sun had published the story, in which claims were made that 48-year-old, Joe Rwamirama’s flatulence was a bona fide method of repelling and even killing mosquitoes. Quotes from residents in the report stated, “When Joe is around we all know that mosquitoes will vanish.”
This all-natural mosquito control method began circulating from a spoof news website, shared as a trusted and true news story by those, who didn’t understand.
Lost in translation, the original post occurred online on December 9, on ihlayanews.com. The website’s header says, “nuusparodie waarvan jy hou,” which translates to, “news parody you like,” in English. This story sparked worldwide acclaim in short order, lauding the Ugandan resident’s “all-natural” mosquito killing capabilities. As with many parody news stories, this one got legs across social media, becoming the butt of an endless number of off-color jokes and commentary. At the same time, it also spread false mosquito control information.
Essential oils are the base for actual all-natural mosquito protection.
When it comes to protecting your home and family from the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses, always check the validity of social media stories. Don’t rely on a post that is a potential mosquito control myth.
Mosquito protection is THAT important for your family’s health and well-being. Don’t count on crazy social media posts, with outlandish claims like this one, to sway your opinion on the real need for REAL mosquito protection. That protection can best be sought out from a professional mosquito control company. Generally, these false reports are not as far-fetched as the one I am talking about here. Most concern using household chemicals as home remedies for personal mosquito protection. Those reports are more harmful, as there are actual working home remedies for other things – but not mosquito control.
Effective mosquito control starts with mosquito barrier protection.
Dave Macchia, Central Mass Mosquito Control Expert
As always, I recommend professional mosquito control efforts for your Central Mass home and family. Don’t gamble the health of your family on home remedies or potential social media hoaxes. Trust a reputable mosquito control company for the most complete protection against mosquito bites and the harmful diseases they carry.