MP sees surge in child poisoning from pesticides:Every second victim under 10 years; AIIMS Bhopal upgrades centre to tackle poison emergencies

Children in India are at high risk of accidental poisoning, with pesticides, household chemicals, and medicines posing serious threats. The Poison Information Center (PIC) at AIIMS Bhopal receives urgent calls daily from hospitals and parents across the country. Experts warn that early treatment can save lives, but prevention and awareness are critical. Child poisoning incidents on the rise On December 7, PIC received a call from Sidhi, Madhya Pradesh. A six-year-old child had accidentally found a bottle of pesticide while playing. He tried to open it with his mouth and became unconscious. His grandmother rushed him to a local hospital. PIC doctors guided the hospital staff on emergency treatment. PIC data shows that every second poisoning victim in India is a child under 10. Since 2020, PIC has received 786 calls nationwide, and 401 of them involved children under 10. Pesticides and household chemicals: Hidden dangers In Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka alone, nearly 80 children have been exposed to pesticides this year. In Karwar, Karnataka, an eight-year-old accidentally got agricultural chemicals on his hands while playing near a field. He fell unconscious and was admitted to a private hospital. Household chemicals like toilet cleaners are common in adult suicide attempts. These include phenyl, bleach, and other corrosive substances. While rarely fatal for adults, these chemicals can be deadly for children. They often cause permanent internal damage. Symptoms and immediate measures Toilet cleaner exposure: Preventive measures: Rat poison exposure: AIIMS Bhopal PIC upgraded to poison control center AIIMS Bhopal’s PIC is being upgraded to a full Poison Control Center (PCC). This will allow experts to provide both phone guidance and in-person treatment. Initially, treatment will be available for patients at AIIMS Bhopal, followed by training for doctors in district hospitals. The aim is to provide the best treatment for poisoning, saving over 70% of lives if treatment is prompt. A committee under the Union Health Ministry, including Dr Raghavendra Vidua from AIIMS Bhopal, will create a unified database of poison cases in India. How the PCC works Doctors call the center and provide details of the poison, symptoms, and exposure. PIC staff enter the data into software containing information on 2,000 types of poisons, their effects, and treatment. Based on this, they guide doctors or healthcare workers on proper care. This system allows any doctor to quickly access life-saving guidance with a single phone call. 24×7 assistance The Poison Control Center offers round-the-clock support. Toll-free number: 1800 233 31122
Mobile numbers: 9407304738, 9407214738