My child ingested some hand sanitizer, what should I do?
Hand sanitizers contain either ethanol or isopropanol. Ethanol is the same alcohol found in alcoholic beverages but the quantity found in hand sanitizer is much greater. Amounts greater than a pea size can be toxic to children if ingested. Hand sanitizers should be stored out of sight and away from children. Call the Poison Center, 1-800-222-1222, if someone swallows hand sanitizer.
Always supervise children while using hand sanitizer. If it gets into the eye, wash immediately with lukewarm tap water for 15 minutes. Call the Poison Center, 1-800-222-1222, if hand sanitizer touches your eye.
Is bleach safe to use on produce?
Bleach contains chemical element chlorine. It helps to kill bacteria and is used as a household cleaning product. Chlorine gas is readily formed when bleach is exposed to air. Breathing in chlorine gas will cause eye, nose, and throat burning. Cough, shortness of breath, and chest tightness may occur. If this happens, immediately leave the room to get some fresh air. If you are able, open the windows and close the door before leaving. Get some fresh air. If your chest feels tight or you are having trouble breathing, call 1-800-222-1222 or 911 immediately.
I want to mix cleaners for boosting effect. Is that safe?
Mixing household cleaners such as bleach and ammonia is not recommended. It can lead to a release of particularly harmful gases causing eye, nose, and throat burning. Cough, shortness of breath, and chest tightness may occur. If this happens, immediately leave the room to get some fresh air. If you are able, open the windows and close the door before leaving. Get some fresh air. If your chest feels tight or you are having trouble breathing, call 1-800-222-1222 or 911 immediately.
My friend told me to use oil of oregano to keep the COVID virus from infecting me. Is that safe?
Oregano is an herb that is commonly used in cooking. Oil extracted from its leaves has a history of being used as alternative medicine. Oregano oil can be highly concentrated when compared to the herb form. It is a known irritant of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. Take caution with oil of oregano and avoid direct contact with the skin or mouth. It has been associated with burning sensation in the throat. If taken in large doses, it can become toxic and lead to severe, life threatening problems. If you ingested oil of oregano and are having problems call, call 1-800-222-1222 immediately.
Is too much zinc bad for you?
Zinc is found in a wide range of over the counter cold medicines and immune health supplements. If taken in large amounts over an extended period of time, it can become toxic. Some people experience upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, or mouth irritation. Zinc can also react with other medicines and lead to problems. If you suspect an emergency, call 1-800-222-1222 or 911 immediately.
Can I take my dog’s ivermectin to keep the COVID-virus from infecting me?
Ivermectin is a prescription-only medication used to treat parasitic infections in both animals and humans. It is commonly used as a heart worm medicine for dogs. It is sold under the brand names Heartgard® and Iverhart®. Ivermectin is also used to treat certain infections in humans. Ingestions of ivermectin are associated with skin rashes, vomiting, and possible seizures. If you ingested ivermectin and have questions or problems, call 1-800-222-1222 immediately.