Gujarat's First 24x7 Poison Information Centre Launches in Karamsad
In a significant boost to emergency healthcare, Gujarat has inaugurated its first-ever 24x7 Poison Information Centre (PIC) at Pramukhswami Medical College and Shree Krishna Hospital in Karamsad. This facility aims to provide instant expert guidance for life-threatening situations, including snakebites, pesticide exposure, and highly fatal Celphos consumption, potentially saving crucial minutes across the state.
Central Hub for Poison Surveillance and Response
Managed by the department of forensic medicine and toxicology (FMT), the centre serves as a central hub for poison surveillance, clinical decision support, and emergency response. It caters to both healthcare professionals and the general public, ensuring timely intervention in poisoning cases. Dr Swapnil Agrawal, dean of the medical college, emphasized that the PIC will deliver real-time consultation and standardized treatment protocols to improve outcomes and prevent complications.
Global Collaboration with TOXBASE Under UK's NHS
A key feature of the centre is its collaboration with TOXBASE, a platform under the UK's National Health Service (NHS), supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). This partnership provides access to a global database of over 22,000 poisons, enabling evidence-based diagnosis and treatment. Officials noted that the system acts as a ready reference for toxicology, allowing doctors to instantly access globally validated information.
Toll-Free Helpline for Round-the-Clock Advice
The centre operates a toll-free helpline (1800-233-0232) that offers round-the-clock advice on first aid, risk assessment, decontamination, and referral. This service is open to both medical professionals and the public, making expert guidance accessible to all. Hospital data reveals that Shree Krishna Hospital handled nearly 300 poisoning cases in the past year, many involving agricultural chemicals such as pesticides, aluminium phosphide (Celphos), and rodenticides.
Addressing Pesticide-Related Poisoning Concerns
Experts highlighted that pesticide-related poisoning remains a major concern in Gujarat, particularly among agricultural workers, underscoring the need for awareness and safer handling practices. Dr Arijit Datta, professor and head of FMT, explained that the centre ensures a structured response—from early identification and first aid to advanced treatment guidance—while also supporting peripheral healthcare centres.
Caution Against Incorrect First Aid Practices
Dr Datta cautioned that incorrect first aid often worsens outcomes. "Many cases turn critical due to delayed or wrong intervention. With this helpline, even a layperson can quickly know what to do—and what to avoid," he said. He added that the widespread use of highly toxic substances like Celphos makes timely and accurate guidance crucial, as some commonly practised methods can be harmful.
Distinct from Other Institutions
Officials clarified that the centre is distinct from institutions such as the National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH), as it offers a dedicated 24x7 poison advisory service integrated with an international toxicology database. This initiative marks a proactive step in enhancing public health infrastructure and emergency response capabilities in Gujarat.
