The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has dismissed claims circulating on social media alleging that insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) being distributed to primary school children contain harmful chemical compounds.
In a statement, the Service described the claims as false, misleading, and without any scientific or regulatory basis, urging the public not to panic or be alarmed.
According to the GHS, the nets currently being distributed are Interceptor® G2 Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets, which are WHO-approved and manufactured to international safety standards as part of Ghana’s malaria prevention and elimination programme.
The Service explained that the nets contain two active insecticidal compounds, chlorfenapyr and alpha-cypermethrin, both of which have been widely used in global public health interventions for many years.
It added that Interceptor® G2 has received World Health Organization prequalification and approval from Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority, confirming its safety for use by all groups, including children, pregnant women, and infants.
The GHS further noted that the compounds used in the nets have very low vapour pressure, meaning they do not release harmful substances into the air during use, and therefore pose no respiratory risk when properly used.
The Service also stated that there is no documented evidence linking properly used insecticide-treated nets to respiratory illness.
It cautioned the public against spreading unverified claims, stressing that misinformation could discourage the use of a key intervention in the fight against malaria, which remains a leading cause of illness and death among children in Ghana.
Parents and caregivers have been advised to use the nets as intended, air newly received nets in a shaded, well-ventilated area before first use, and report any concerns to nearby health facilities.
The GHS reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring public health safety and providing accurate information to the public.
