Western Cape Government Issues Poisoning Risk Alert for the Holidays

The festive season in South Africa brings with it a sparkle of excitement and celebratory spirit, but also safety concerns as the Western Cape Government stresses the importance of poison prevention. Over 2,500 cases of poisoning were attended to at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH) and the Tygerberg Hospital (TBH) in just two short months, from December 2022 to January 2023.

Carine Marks, Director of the Poisons Information Centre at Tygerberg Hospital, highlights the increased risk of poisoning incidents during the holiday times, particularly in children. Marks pinpoints medication mishaps, pesticide exposures, and animal stings or bites as common culprits during this season. With schools closed and routines shifted, the potential for accidental poisonings escalates.

To combat this risk, the Poisons Information Helpline provides round-the-clock assistance. Its team of 14 clinicians and pharmacists fields a staggering 13,600 calls annually, with monthly call volumes upwards of 1,100. According to Dr. Cindy Stephen, Director of the Poisons Information Centre at RCWMCH, the holiday period and the accompanying warm summer months also bring increased activity from snakes, spiders, and scorpions, and with it, a spike in cases of envenomation.

Recognizing symptoms could be life-saving. The specialist helpline provides immediate advice in identifying signs of poisoning and acts as a critical resource for managing emergencies until further help can be obtained. The Western Cape Government is encouraging residents and visitors to add the Poisons Information Helpline number (0861 555 777) to their contact lists. Preparedness, they stress, can make the difference between a minor scare and a medical emergency.

In addition to round-the-clock support, safety measures to prevent such occurrences must be observed strictly. These include keeping medication, household chemicals, and pesticides securely out of the reach of children and being more vigilant about potential wildlife encounters.

The government’s focus on this issue demonstrates their commitment to public health and safety, especially at times when traditional routines are disrupted. By pushing for increased awareness and educating the public on steps to take in case of a poisoning incident, they hope to mitigate the risks and ensure that the festive season in the Western Cape remains joyous and safe for all residents and visitors alike.