The government analytical laboratory in Wandegeya analyzed 3,868 samples over the last nine months, revealing 967 cases of poisoning.
Addressing the media at the Naguru Police Headquarters, Simon Mundeyi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, said that common household poisons include medicines for humans and animals, supplements, and remedies such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, iron tablets, contraceptive pills, antidepressants, cough and cold medicines, chest rubs, and vaporizer fluids.
Additionally, he mentioned insecticides, herbicides, mothballs, and rodent and cockroach bait.
Mundeyi explained that key factors contributing to poisoning include a lack of information on chemical and poison handling, insufficient evidence on the extent and type of poisoning, limited knowledge of poison types and exposure, and inadequate protective measures.
According to investigations by the Government Analytical Laboratory, the highest number of fatal poisoning cases came from the eastern Ugandan districts of Pallisa, Budaka, Kibuku, and Mbale. Northern Uganda, Western Uganda, and the Greater Masaka region also experienced notable poisoning cases.
Data show that poisoning was involved in most suicide cases, with urban areas reporting 63% of these incidents, compared to 25.6% in rural regions. Additionally, snake bites accounted for 14.1% of fatal poisoning cases.
The report identified human and veterinary medicines, supplements, and remedies as leading hazards. It also listed personal hygiene products and cosmetics as significant risks. Experts further warned of the dangers posed by agricultural chemicals like pesticides and other garden and automotive products.
Mundeyi outlined the signs and symptoms of poisoning, including excessive salivation, urinary incontinence, vomiting, blurred vision after meals, headaches, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bradycardia, dizziness, and sweating.
