But when used at high doses in homes to kill roaches and other indoor insects, the insecticide can cause serious health problems for people and pets.
Severe exposure can be fatal.
In a recent case, unlicensed pest control operators illegally sprayed many houses and other buildings in Jackson County, Mississippi. In response EPA took emergency action, relocating 1,416 residents from 365 homes. Eight day care centers, one restaurant and two hotels have been closed. Several people have been arrested and criminally charged with misuse and illegal sale of the pesticide. Most incidents have affected a cross section of people, and others have affected mostly African American communities.