St. John's 
In an advisory issued today, Health Canada is warning Canadians over the circulation of unregistered insecticide products in the Canadian market.
Lava 100% EC (CNW Group/Health Canada (HC))
Health Canada has issued a warning to the public about the presence of unregistered insecticides in the market, specifically naming products like “Sniper 1000 EC DDVP”, “Lava 100% EC”, and “NOPEST”.
These products, containing the chemical dichlorvos (DDVP), have not been authorized for use in Canada due to their potential to significantly harm human health. Exposure to dichlorvos can lead to symptoms ranging from sweating, nausea, and dizziness to more severe effects such as convulsions or unconsciousness.
The products in question contain the chemical dichlorvos (DDVP), which is known for its significant health risks when used improperly. These items, having bypassed the regulatory approval process, are not sanctioned for use within Canada’s borders.
NOPEST /Health Canada
The presence of these products, particularly on social media platforms, has prompted Health Canada to issue a stern warning to consumers, advising against their purchase and use. The authority emphasizes the health dangers posed by dichlorvos, which can manifest as a range of symptoms from mild, such as sweating and nausea, to severe, including convulsions and loss of consciousness.
The advisory underscores the illegality of possessing, importing, selling, or using these unauthorized insecticides under the Pest Control Products Act (PCPA). Canadians are urged to dispose of any such products in their possession following the environmental and safety protocols prescribed by their local jurisdictions.
Health Canada advises the public to ensure that any insecticide purchases are backed by a PCPA registration number, a mark of regulatory compliance and safety.
Per the news release, this has up to five digits, for example, Registration No. 12345 Pest Control Products Act. One can also check whether the product is registered by verifying with the Pesticide Product Information Database.
The agency also encourages the reporting of non-compliant products to the Pesticide Compliance Program, an initiative aimed at safeguarding public health and maintaining the integrity of the Canadian market.
In the face of potential health risks associated with these unregistered products, individuals experiencing adverse effects are advised to seek immediate medical attention or contact their regional poison control center.
