Vadodara: From snakebites and pesticide exposure to highly fatal Celphos consumption, people across Gujarat can now access instant expert guidance through a single call, potentially saving crucial minutes in life-threatening situations.Pramukhswami Medical College and Shree Krishna Hospital in Karamsad have launched a 24×7 Poison Information Centre (PIC), which will serve as a central hub for poison surveillance, clinical decision support, and emergency response.Officials said the centre, the state’s first, managed by the department of forensic medicine and toxicology (FMT), will cater to both healthcare professionals and the general public, ensuring timely intervention in poisoning cases.Dr Swapnil Agrawal, dean of the medical college, said the PIC will provide real-time consultation and standardised treatment protocols to improve outcomes and prevent complications.A key feature of the centre is its collaboration with TOXBASE under the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). The platform provides access to a global database of over 22,000 poisons, enabling evidence-based diagnosis and treatment.Officials said the system acts as a ready reference for toxicology, allowing doctors to access globally validated information instantly.A toll-free helpline (1800-233-0232) offers round-the-clock advice on first aid, risk assessment, decontamination and referral. The service is open to both medical professionals and the public.Hospital data shows 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. Experts said pesticide-related poisoning remains a major concern in Gujarat, particularly among agricultural workers, highlighting the need for awareness and safer handling practices.Dr Arijit Datta, professor and head of FMT, said the centre ensures a structured response—from early identification and first aid to advanced treatment guidance—while also supporting peripheral healthcare centres.He 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.Datta 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.Officials said the centre is distinct from institutions such as the National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH), as it offers a dedicated 24×7 poison advisory service integrated with an international toxicology database.
