[Poisoning in childhood--an information centre report (author's transl)]

The Poison Control Centre in Vienna registered 4018 inquires regarding possible poisoning in children over a two-year period. The peak incidence occurred in the age group between 2 and 3 years and poisoning chiefly took place in the mornings and in the afternoons, the most frequently ingested substances being household chemicals and drugs. A study in 100 households showed ignorance and carelessness in dealing with chemical substances. An analysis of inquiries concerning medicines revealed the influence of packaging and external characteristics on the frequency of poisoning with these substances. Possibilities which might be of value in the prevention of poisoning in children are discussed.