Seasonal Variation of Childhood Acute Poisoning

Objective: Acute poisoning is a common medical emergency in paediatric unit. This was a retrospective study to see the seasonal variation of acute poisoning in children in a tertiary hospital. Methodology: The study was done in Khulna Medical College Hospital from January 2004 to December 2005. The cases were studied to see the seasonal variations and other epidemiological and clinical parameters. One hundred ninety three patients enrolled in the study were divided in four groups. Prevalence and type of poisoning was observed in winter, spring, summer and rainy seasons respectively. Results: A total of 193(4.7%) cases of childhood acute poisoning were admitted. Out of them 107(55.4%) cases were male and rest 86(44.6%) were female. 1-3 years was the most vulnerable age group to be affected (P<.005). Kerosene was the commonest form of ingredient used. Poisoning cases were more common during summer season (P<.005). Overall mortality rate was 4.66%. Conclusion: Poisoning was common during the summer season and kerosene was found to be most common ingredient. It was possibly due to easy availability of kerosene and during the summer months thirsty children took this substance which was sometimes kept in the discarded container of soft drinks and mineral water bottles etc. People should be warned not to keep these toxic ingredients in such containers and within reach of the children.