News & Media
REMINDER: Suspected Pesticide-related illness and injury is reportable
During the spring and summer months physicians see more illnesses and injuries caused by pesticides. A pesticide is anything used to prevent, destroy, repel, or reduce pests and the damage they cause. Pests include insects, weeds, fungi, rodents, mold, and bacteria. Pesticides include bug sprays, weed killers, rat pellets, and disinfectants.
To help understand if an exposure has contributed to presenting signs and symptoms, the American College of Medical Toxicology has developed a short course explaining the importance of taking an exposure history and how to do it.
All known or suspected occupational pesticide-related related illnesses or injuries are reportable under the Michigan Public Health code (Article 5, Part 56). Report forms are available for download and submitted on paper, electronically, or by phone. The instructions are on the website. Anyone in a medical office may submit the form.