CoCT hospitals issue warning of drug poisoning as winter creeps in
The Tygerberg and Red Cross War Memorial Children's hospitals are calling on parents and caregivers to take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their children safe.
Photo: Pixabay/frolicsomepl
CAPE TOWN - The Tygerberg and Red Cross War Memorial Children's hospitals poison information centres are urging the public to be extra careful during winter as the cold weather sees an increased risk of poisoning due to medication exposure.
The hospitals are calling on parents and caregivers to take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their children safe.
Tygerberg Poison Information Centre director, Carine Marks, said last year over a third of pharmaceutical poisoning cases at the hospital involved children aged one to five, with more than 1,000 children affected.
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"It's crucial for parents and caregivers to be extra cautious when storing pharmaceutical syrups and medications, especially those that are sweetly flavoured or brightly coloured. These can easily attract children who might not understand the dangers and they could accidentally ingest them," Marks said.
Marks said if a child ingests the medication, it is critical to act quickly.
"Contact the poison helpline or seeking medical attention at the hospital can make a significant difference in ensuring the child's safety and receiving timely medical care," suggested Marks.