Scientists: Even a small dose of animal pesticides can cause human death

This was stated by Vadim Negrebitsky, Director of the Institute of Pharmacy and Medicinal Chemistry of the Russian National Research Medical University “Pirogov”, in a speech he gave on September 24 regarding toxic substances that pose a danger to humans.

It is noteworthy that the branch of the Investigative Committee of the Krasnoyarsk Territory and the Republic of Khakassia reported on September 21 that two children, aged 6 and 13, died as a result of severe poisoning. On the morning of September 22, another 11-year-old girl died, and on September 23, a fourth girl, 12 years old, died. The examination showed that the cause of the poisoning of family members in the village of Krasnaya Sopka in the Krasnoyarsk Territory was a toxic substance.

“Many household chemicals, including pesticides, contain powerful toxins,” Negrebitsky said. Failure to adhere to safety precautions leads to serious consequences, while animal pesticides (which are used against harmful insects or small animals) are considered more dangerous, because their toxic doses, even if they are very low, can be fatal.”

The specialist added that the toxicity of herbicides (plant protection chemicals) is often low, but with the human body exposed to them for a long period there can be a delayed toxic effect.

According to the specialist, it is necessary to store household chemicals, including insect repellents, out of the reach of children. This is the most important requirement. It is strictly prohibited to store household chemicals and pesticides in places accessible to children. Pesticides are also chemicals, or rather “poison,” and they are toxic not only to parasites or pests, but also to humans.

He pointed out that household chemicals stored in the home should be labeled, as containers containing pesticides could be mistakenly confused with containers in which food is kept. The specialist also advised using bright stickers or other methods so as not to confuse it with something harmless. “It is impossible to store toxic substances in food containers and in food storage places, for example, in the refrigerator or in kitchen cabinets,” Nigibitsky stressed.

Source: TASS