It’s an emergency

Emergency Information

In an emergency…

This website is not to be used as an alternative for professional medical advice. If you suspect poisoning, seek immediate medical help by calling 999 in the UK, or your local emergency services.

Emergency Response Steps

  1. If possible, move the person to fresh air and remove any contaminated clothing, whilst avoiding direct skin contact.
  2. Call for immediate medical help, dialing 999 or 111.
  3. Start basic first aid:
    • If the person is conscious:
      • Rinse skin thoroughly with water for 15-20 minutes (if there has been any skin exposure)
      • Flush their eyes with water/ eye wash for 10-15 minutes (if there has been any eye contact with malathion or parathion).1
    • If the person is unconscious:
      • Do not induce vomiting
      • If they are not breathing, begin CPR and continue until help arrives.1

When to seek immediate help

You should always seek immediate help if:

  • The person shows any of the critical warning signs.
  • There is known exposure to a large amount of malathion or parathion, either through ingestion, inhalation or skin contact.2
  • Symptoms worsen rapidly

Contact 111 immediately for instructions if there are milder symptoms, like slight nausea or skin irritation.2

References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Malathion poisoning [Internet]. Atlanta: CDC; 2015 [updated 18/11/2024]. [Cited: 18th November 2024.]Available from: https://wwwn.cdc.gov/TSP/MMG/MMGDetails.aspx?mmgid=517&toxid=92
  2. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). Public Health Statement: Malathion [Internet]. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services; 2003 [Cited: 18th November 2024]. Available from: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp154-c1-b.pdf