Top 10 Most Common Poisoning Cases in Vietnam and How to Prevent Them

Consuming pufferfish meat can lead to poisoning due to the toxin tetrodotoxin found in the fish. Tetrodotoxin is a potent poison that can cause cardiovascular collapse, respiratory failure, and even death. The toxin is present in the fish's eggs, intestines, liver, and ovaries. Pufferfish poisoning has a high fatality rate of around 60%. In Vietnam, cases are often reported in central provinces like Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, and Phu Yen. Prevention: Avoid eating pufferfish, do not dry or prepare pufferfish dishes, and if poisoning is suspected, induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention.

The skin of cassava roots contains a heteroside that, when broken down in water, forms cyanide acid, a potent poison. Research conducted by Dr. Bach Van Cam, Head of the Emergency Department at Children's Hospital 1 in Ho Chi Minh City, and Dr. Nguyen Thi Kim Thoa, has shown that cassava poisoning is a leading cause of death in children. This type of poisoning accounts for 10% of food poisoning cases, with a fatality rate of 16.7%, the highest among food-related poisonings. Prevention: Choose less toxic cassava varieties for cultivation. Cassava should be processed immediately after harvesting; peel the skin and soak it in water before cooking. When boiling, leave the lid open several times to allow the toxins to evaporate. Monitor children and avoid allowing them to dig up and eat cassava on their own.

Alcohol poisoning typically occurs from drinking excessive amounts of ethanol too quickly or mistakenly consuming methanol. This condition can lead to respiratory failure, circulatory collapse, hypoglycemia, coma, and death if not treated promptly. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning include confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow breathing, a pale complexion, and hypothermia. Prevention: Consume alcohol in moderation, drink slowly, and avoid drinking too quickly. Be sure to distinguish between methanol and ethanol to prevent accidental poisoning.

Pesticide poisoning occurs when someone accidentally ingests pesticide, often through mistaken consumption or suicide attempts. It can also happen through skin contact or inhalation if protective gear is not used during application. In Vietnam, pesticide poisoning is often linked to cholinesterase-inhibiting pesticides, causing symptoms like headaches, blurred vision, difficulty breathing, sweating, vomiting, excessive salivation, and muscle weakness. In severe cases, respiratory and circulatory failure can lead to death. Prevention: Keep pesticides out of reach of children and never store them in drink bottles to avoid confusion. Always use protective equipment when applying pesticides.

Rat poison comes in various forms and is commonly mixed with food to trap rodents, generally referred to as rat bait. People can become poisoned by accidentally consuming food containing rat poison, or in some cases, intentionally ingesting it for self-harm. Symptoms of rat poisoning include seizures, irregular heartbeats, circulatory collapse, respiratory failure, bleeding, and in severe cases, death. Prevention: Do not use rat poison or, if necessary, keep it well out of the reach of children and the elderly. If someone accidentally eats food contaminated with rat poison, seek immediate medical attention.

Currently, the use of narcotics in our country is becoming increasingly complex, with a growing number of drug users, which has led to a rise in drug overdose cases. Drug poisoning occurs when someone consumes an overdose of narcotics or a smaller amount in those who are more sensitive. Depending on the type of substance, the body will show various symptoms. Common signs of drug poisoning include confusion, seizures, shallow breathing, circulatory collapse, respiratory failure, and coma. Prevention: Avoid using narcotics in any form.

Paracetamol is a common medication used to relieve pain and reduce fever. Paracetamol overdose typically occurs when someone consumes too much of it or takes it with the intent of self-harm. This drug is metabolized in the liver, and high doses can be toxic, producing harmful intermediates via cytochrome P450 enzymes. The main toxic compound is N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine. Paracetamol can also harm the kidneys, heart, pancreas, and skeletal muscles. Prevention: Always take the prescribed dose, avoid high doses, and use the medication as directed by a healthcare provider. Keep it out of reach of children.

Food poisoning, also known as foodborne illness, is a condition that occurs after consuming contaminated or spoiled food. It happens when a person eats food that is infected with harmful bacteria, toxins, or contains substances that can cause poisoning. This may also result from consuming food that is improperly stored, expired, or contains harmful preservatives or additives. Prevention: Choose fresh, clean food with clear origin, ensure food is cooked thoroughly, and maintain hygiene during food preparation. Avoid eating expired, spoiled, or improperly stored food.

Poisoning from toxic mushrooms typically occurs in spring and summer when people forage for wild mushrooms without knowing their origins. Every year, many mushroom poisoning cases occur in forested areas where people unknowingly consume poisonous varieties. If detected early and treated appropriately, recovery is possible without long-term effects. However, severe cases with delayed diagnosis can be fatal. Prevention: Avoid picking and consuming mushrooms with bright colors or those of uncertain origin. If you suspect mushroom poisoning, seek immediate medical attention.

Certain parts of toads, including the skin, subcutaneous tissue, eggs, liver, and intestines, are highly toxic due to the presence of bufotalin, bufotonin, bufotenin, and other organic compounds. These toxins can cause arrhythmia, high blood pressure, cardiac arrest, respiratory depression, and even death in severe cases. Improper preparation of toad meat can lead to poisoning if toxins from these organs contaminate the flesh. Prevention: Avoid consuming toad meat, or ensure it is thoroughly prepared to prevent toxins from contaminating the edible parts.