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Exposure to antimicrobial pesticides led to illness among health care workers
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A number of people working in health care facilities in four states experienced adverse health events related to antimicrobial pesticide exposures, results from a recent study indicated.
CDC researchers evaluated data collected through pesticide poisoning surveillance programs from 2002 to 2007 in states that regularly monitor information on antimicrobial pesticide-related illness — California, Louisiana, Michigan and Texas — to determine the type and incidence rate of health problems associated with exposure to these products.
The researchers focused their analysis on the outcomes of workers’ contact with these antimicrobial pesticides in health care settings and identified cases through workers’ compensation systems. Data on antimicrobial pesticide-related illnesses were derived from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation and the Sentinel Event Notification System for Occupational Risks (SENSOR) pesticides program.
The researchers discovered 401 cases of acute illnesses among health care workers, with 287 occurring in California, 56 in Texas, 43 in Michigan and 15 in Louisiana. These cases represented 87% of all work-related pesticide adverse health effects reported in health care facilities.
Eighty-two percent of illnesses occurred in women, according to the researchers, and 73% among those aged 25 to 54 years. Janitors/housekeepers were most commonly affected, followed by nursing/medical assistants and technicians.
Most illnesses — 85% of cases — were low-severity, and 14% were moderate. There were two cases, however, of high-severity and one death, the researchers noted.
Most workers experienced ocular symptoms/signs, but some also reported neurologic, respiratory and dermal problems.
The researchers said the most common active ingredients that caused adverse health events were quaternary ammonium compounds, glutaraldehyde and sodium hypochlorite. Sixty-six percent of patients claimed exposure occurred when handling antimicrobial pesticides, and 18% reported being bystanders. The researchers also noted that 51% of exposures resulted from splashes, spills or leaks.
Data showed that 74% of 265 people who handled antimicrobial pesticides used personal protective equipment, but only 15% wore eye protection, and 5% wore surgical masks or respirators.
The researchers said health care facilities may prevent adverse health events by using less dangerous products; stressing safe handling of these products; ensuring that employees are aware of health hazards associated with antimicrobial pesticides; making personal protective equipment readily available; highlighting the areas in which antimicrobial pesticides are used; and seeking treatment for any illness related to these products.
Mehler L. MMWR. 2010;59:551-556.