Epidemiology of poisonous animal and plant poisoning in China, 2004-2013

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of poisoning caused by poisonous animal and plant in China and provide evidence for the prevention and control of such poisoning. Methods The data of poisoning caused by poisonous animal and plant during 2004-2013 were collected from National Public Health Emergency Reporting Information System. Results A total of 675 poisoning events caused by poisonous animal and plant were reported during this period, 12 576 people were involved and 253 people died. Among 78 poisoning events caused by poisonous animal, 62 were classified as grade IV and or above, involving 789 people and causing 65 deaths. Among 597 poisoning events caused by poisonous plant, 308 were classified as grade IV and or above. The incidence peak of the poisoning were during November-December. Most poisonous animal caused poisoning occurred at home (69.35%), resulting in the highest case number and death toll, which accounted for 60.96% and 90.77% of the total respectively. The death rate of poisonous plant caused poisoning occurred at home was highest (60.11%). Poisonous animal related poisonings were mostly caused by fish (37 events, 59.68%), wasps (9 events, 14.52%) and shellfish (6 events, 9.68%), accounting for 83.87%. The first three plants causing poisoning were kidney bean (124 events, 59.68%), aconite (49 events, 15.91%) and tung tree (16 events, 5.19%). Conclusion The situation of poisoning caused by poisonous animal and plant was serious in China. It is necessary to improve the investigation and response of poisoning caused by poisonous animal and plant and strengthen the public health education.