Pesticides are chemical agents sprayed directly on to crops in order to repel rodents, insects and even invasive weeds. Although pesticides protect crops, they can also harm humans after prolonged exposure. The World Health Organization estimates that three million cases of pesticide poisoning are reported per year and that approximately 7 percent of cases lead to death.
Lancaster County’s major struggle with pesticides is that they are contaminating water supplies, specifically through run off and water wells. Well water contamination is especially a problem in Pennsylvania’s counties because the state has no specific standards for private wells. According to Project Green Lancaster, fifty percent of wells in Pennsylvania suffer from pesticide contamination.
Symptoms of severe acute pesticide poisoning include but are not limited to fever, intense thirst, and increased rate of breathing, tears, and pinpoint pupils. These symptoms can mimic heat exhaustion, however, if afflicted with heat exhaustion one will lack saliva and tears. In any case, if you or someone you know believes they have pesticide poisoning call the American Association for Poison Control Centers at (800) 222-1222.
