The Washington Poison Center has seen an increase in total call volume by over 700% since they hit the market. E-cigarettes contain high concentrations of liquid nicotine which can poison a child with a single mouthful or even by absorption through the skin. Symptoms can range from nausea and vomiting to increased heart rate, seizures, and even death. Manufacturers are not required to put child-resistant caps on these containers, which may increase the risk of poisoning in children. The graphs below compare current YTD exposure totals with 2013 totals reported to the WAPC for pediatrics as well as total human exposure data compared to previous years.
*Disclaimer: Reporting of exposures to the poison center is voluntary and not mandated by law. As such, WAPC data describes the number of calls called into the poison center and most likely is an under-representation of the true occurrence of any one substance.
For further information, contact Dr. Garrard at AGarrard@wapc.org or 206-517-2356.
Call the Washington Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 immediately for medical advice if you are worried about the health and safety of yourself, others or if your child has accidentally been exposed to liquid nicotine or an e-cigarette. All calls are free and confidential.