How to Care for Your Child After exposure to a Pesticide

Your child can get sick from pesticides due to:

• Going into an area too soon after pesticides were applied.
• Storing pesticides in food or drink containers (like water bottles).
• Consuming food or drinks contaminated with pesticides.
• Leaving pesticide containers open where children can reach them or near food.
• Using pesticides in closed spaces without protective gear.
• Using outdoor pesticides inside the home.
• Touching the treated surfaces without using protective clothes.

Symptoms may include:

If swallowed:

• Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
• Unusual movements, loss of consciousness
• Coughing, choking, difficulty breathing

If inhaled (breathed in):

• Trouble breathing, coughing, sneezing
• Dizziness, skin rash, loss of consciousness

If touched (skin contact):

• Skin rash, dryness, itching, redness
• Numbness or tingling in the skin

A doctor will assess your child’s symptoms and exposure to pesticides to make a diagnosis.

Treatment depends on your child’s symptoms and may include:

• Medicines for nausea, vomiting, and seizures
• Antihistamines (allergy medicine) for rashes or itching
• Oxygen for breathing problems

To protect your child from the toxic effects of pesticides, please follow the safety instructions below:

Use safe pesticide products:

• Only buy pesticides that are registered and approved by the Ministry of Municipalities and Environment.
• Never use outdoor or veterinary pesticides inside your home.
• Follow the label instructions carefully and never any pesticide more than directed.
• Avoid using pesticides containing phosphides, as they are highly toxic and may cause death.

When using pest control companies:

• Use a company licensed by the Ministry of Municipalities and Environment.
• Ask for the pesticide’s name and check if it’s approved for indoor use.
• Ask for safety instructions and follow them closely.

Before applying the pesticide:

• Always read the label carefully and follow the directions of use.
• Remove children, toys and pets from the area.
• Remove or cover food and food appliances well.
• Wear personal protective equipment: protective gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, and a face mask.

After applying the pesticide and before accessing the treated area:

• Keep your family members, children and pets away until it is safe to access the area as per company direction and/or label.
• Ensure the area is well-ventilated, especially if spray/liquid pesticides are used.
• Ensure that the pesticide container is tightly locked and stored away from children.

If your child comes in contact with pesticide:

• Call the Qatar Poison Center (QPC) at 4003-1111 immediately for guidance.
• Wash exposed skin well with soap and water.
• Move your child to a well-ventilated area with fresh air if they inhaled the pesticide.

Get medical help if your child has been exposed to a pesticide and shows any of these symptoms:

• Severe rash
• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain

• Has difficulty breathing
• Is dizzy or loses consciousness
• Shows unusual body movements or seizures