Chronic organophosphate poisoning

Prolonged exposure to organophosphates in low concentrations caused diarrhoea in 38 students, lecturers and other personnel at an agricultural college. The symptoms of those affected, plasma pseudocholinesterase levels, topography of the orchards and vegetable gardens, the various insecticides and quantities used, and the exposure due to prevailing winds have been studied. We conclude that safety and precautionary measures must be strictly enforced.