HOW TO PROTECT YOUR CHILDREN FROM ACCIDENTAL POISONING

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In 2004, it was estimated that 346,000 people in the world died from accidental poisoning. 91% of this occurred in the low- and middle-income countries. About 90% of all poisoning happen in the home. In the USA, 374 children are seen at the emergency room every day on account of poisoning and 2 of them die.

Poison comes hidden in so many products. Some of these are normal cleaning agents and medication which are not to be taken by children. Poisoning in children is seen predominantly in children under 6 years and mostly, in males. A study done in KATH from January 2007  to January 2012 revealed a total of 253 children reporting to the hospital with poisoning over the period. The male to female ratio was 1.58: 1. The median age was 2 years and kerosene poisoning was the leading cause. Epidemiology of pediatric poisoning reporting to a tertiary hospital in Ghana. D. Ansong, et al.

Children with neurodevelopmental disorders and mental retardation are also at an increased risk of poisoning.

HERE ARE A FEW TIPS ON HOW TO PROTECT YOUR CHILD FROM ACCIDENTAL POISONING.

1.Keep products which are potentially poisonous like bleach and disinfectants in their original containers. Do not pour them in water bottles or bottles used for drinks. The child can mistake the substance for water and swallow it.

2.Discard poisonous or potentially poisonous substances which are not going to be used again.

3.Discard expired medication promptly.

4. Ensure that potentially harmful substances are kept in containers with child proof locks or kept in tightly closed containers and kept out of the reach of children. They can also be stored in cupboards with child proof locks.

5. If you share the house with other tenants, ensure that the compound is made safe for all children. Pieces of soap, detergents and petroleum compounds should not be kept on the compound where children can easily access them.

6.When children have to go on playdates in their friends’ homes, do some research and be sure the place is safe for children before you allow them to go.

Let’s all help in protecting children from accidental poisoning.

 

Dr Gloria Amponsah-Kodua

Paediatrician specialist

[email protected]

 

 

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