A report by the Ministry of Internal Affairs has indicated that the eastern part of the country is leading in terms of poisonous cases.
According to Internal Affairs spokesperson, Simon Mundeyi,the Government Analytical Laboratory received 976 cases of poisoning between January and September 2024 with 3,868 samples analyzed. This highlights the need for continued awareness and education on poisoning prevention and management in Uganda.
“The cases taken for investigation at the Government Analytical Laboratory have indicated that the districts of Pallisa, Budaka, Kibuku, Mbale, Serere and Kumi in Eastern Uganda lead in cases registered,” Mudenyi said.
He said Northern Uganda, Western and Greater Masaka region in Central Uganda follow respectively in registering the highest number of poison cases.
According to statistics from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, suicide was reported to cause the highest number of suicide cases at 63% in urban areas compared to 25.6% in rural areas.
The poisons
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the most common household poisons are medicines for both people and animals, supplements and remedies which include paracetamol, ibuprofen, iron tablets, contraceptive pills, anti-depressants, cough and cold medicines, chest rubs and vaporizer fluids.
“There are also personal hygiene products and cosmetics which include hand sanitizer, mouthwash, shampoo, perfume and nail polish remover, cleaning products which include dishwashing and laundry liquid, dishwasher powders and tablets, bleach, oven cleaner, eucalyptus oil and shower cleaner,” Mudenyi said.
He also mentioned solvents like methylated spirits and turpentine, pesticides which include flea collars, fly spray, animal worming tablets. insecticides, herbicides, mothballs, rodent and cockroach baits as well as garden and auto products which include fertilizer, petrol, diesel, oil and radiator fluid.
According to Mundeyi, lack of information on chemical and poison handling, insufficient evidence on poisoning extent and type, limited knowledge on poison types and exposure and inadequate protective measures are key factors contributing to poisoning.
Symptoms
Mudenyi said signs and symptoms of poisoning include malaise, excessive salivation, lacrimation, urinary incontinence, vomiting, blurred vision after having a meal, headache, nausea , abdominal pain, Diarrhea bradycardia, dizziness and sweating among others.
He however said the Directorate of Government Analytical Laboratory (DGAL) plays a crucial role in addressing the issue of poisoning through its toxicology division that he said conducts medico-legal investigations and provides advice on diagnosis and management of poisoning.
“If you suspect poisoning in yourself or someone else, please call 0752438587 immediately for assistance,” he urged.