OTTAWA — Health Canada is issuing a warning about the risks associated with ingesting or accidentally spilling on the skin solutions contained in rapid test kits for detecting COVID-19.
The federal agency has learned that poison control centers have received about 50 calls related to accidental exposure to these solutions, which resulted in minor health problems.
Health Canada first recalls that these rapid tests are safe and effective when used correctly.
But many kits contain liquid solutions containing chemical preservatives, such as sodium azide and Proclin. These solutions can be toxic, even in small doses, if ingested or absorbed through the skin, especially in children and pets, says Health Canada.
Thus, sodium azide, in small doses, can lower blood pressure, and in larger doses, it can have serious health effects.
Proclin, on the other hand, contains chemicals that can cause skin and eye irritation, as well as allergic reactions.
“Inadvertent ingestion or dermal exposure to very small amounts of liquid solutions is unlikely to cause the severe effects associated with larger doses,” says Health Canada. However, even small amounts can be harmful to children and pets.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website in the United States states that sodium azide is a “potentially lethal chemical that exists as an odorless white solid”. It is found in automobile air bags and is used as a chemical preservative in hospitals and laboratories.
Health Canada advises keeping test kits and their solutions out of the reach of children and pets. Hands should also be washed thoroughly after using the tests; if spilled, rinse well with water.
One should also follow the instructions for proper disposal of the products and contact poison control centers in the event of ingestion or direct skin exposure, especially to the eyes.
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