March 18-24 is National Poison Prevention Week

Across all age groups, poisoning continues to be a leading cause of injury related hospitalizations and death in Virginia and nationwide.  Of particular concern is the increase in unintentional poisonings. From 1999-2004, a 62 percent increase among unintentional poisoning deaths in Virginia was reported.  In response to this and in observance of National Poison Prevention Week, the Division of Injury and Violence Prevention is pleased to announce the availability of new poison prevention information and resources for Virginia residents.

Poison Prevention

Poisoning Prevention Tip Card for Children Young children are at special risk for poisoning. They are curious. They don’t know what’s safe to eat or drink. Only small amounts of many drugs and poisons can harm them.  The most dangerous poisons for children include medicines, pesticides, windshield washer solution, antifreeze, drain cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, alcoholic beverages, lamp oil, furniture polish, gasoline, kerosene and paint thinner.  Click here to view the new Poisoning Prevention for Children tip card.
Poisoning Prevention Tip Card for Older Adults Seniors are at special risk for poisoning. As we get older, we often need more medicines. It’s harder for our bodies to process drugs and chemicals. It’s harder to read labels. It’s easier to make mistakes.  In Virginia, hundreds of seniors spend time in the hospital – and even die – because of problems using medicines and household products.  Click here to view the new Poisoning Prevention for Older Adults tip card.
To order FREE tip cards, you may download the DIVP Materials Request Form and fax your order to 804-864-7748. Each tip card is printed with English text on one side and Spanish text on the other.  Quantities are limited.

Virginia Injury Report: A Report on Poisonings in Virginia from 1999 – 2004

The Division of Injury and Violence Prevention examined Virginia poison related hospitalization discharge data, mortality data, and Virginia Poison Control Center data over a six year period from 1999-2004.  During this period, 71 percent of the poisoning deaths were determined to be unintentional.  Suicide and homicide accounted for 26 percent of the deaths, while the intent of the remaining 3 percent of deaths was undetermined.  Of particular concern is the steady increase in unintentional poisoning deaths from 3.8 per 100,000 in 1999 to 6.0 per 100,000 in 2003.  To learn more about Virginia’s poisoning surveillance data, download the Virginia Injury Report: A Report on Poisonings in Virginia from 1999 – 2004 report. Call 804-864-7734 to request a hard copy.

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