GHS Dismisses Viral Video Claims, Says School Malaria Nets Are Safe

The Ghana Health Service [GHS] has categorically denied claims circulating on social media that insecticide-treated nets being distributed to primary school children contain chemicals harmful to human health.[ITNs]

In a press release signed by Director-General Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, GHS described the viral video as “false, misleading, and without any scientific or regulatory basis.” The Service is urging parents and caregivers not to be alarmed.

*Interceptor® G2: WHO and FDA Approved*

According to GHS, the net being distributed is the `Interceptor® G2`, a WHO-prequalified Long-Lasting Insecticidal Net selected for Ghana’s national malaria elimination effort.

The net contains two insecticides, `chlorfenapyr` and `alpha-cypermethrin`, both of which have been used in public health programmes worldwide for many years. GHS said the net has full WHO Prequalification [Ref: 002-002] and has also been approved by Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority [FDA].

*No Respiratory Risk, GHS Says*

Addressing concerns about breathing in the chemicals, GHS explained that the compounds have “extremely low vapour pressure” and are very stable. This means they do not lift into the air like dust, smoke, or aerosol.

“Insecticide-treated nets have been used across Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa for several decades, and across all that time, not one documented case of respiratory illness has ever been linked to sleeping under a properly used ITN,” the release stated.

*GHS’s Appeal to the Public*

GHS is calling on all parents, caregivers, and community members to:

1. *Use the nets. Do not discard, return, or refuse them.* Malaria remains a leading cause of childhood illness and death in Ghana.

2. *Air new nets* in a shaded, well-ventilated space for up to 48 hours before first use to allow any mild new-net smell to clear.

3. *Refrain from sharing unverified health claims*, as misinformation causes fear and puts children at risk.

4. *Contact the nearest health facility* if you have questions, concerns, or experience any unusual reactions.

“The Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of every Ghanaian,” GHS stated. “Every net we distribute has been tested, approved, and verified as safe before it reaches your home.”