Health officials see a rise in older children being exposed to or ingesting laundry pods

The study notes dangerous social media challenges, as well as older adults with cognitive impairments like Alzheimer’s who may mistake the pods for food.

News 12 Staff

Jan 26, 2024, 10:57 PM

Updated 312 days ago

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Health officials have been warning the public about the risk of exposure or ingestion of liquid laundry pods. While there has been a decline in exposure among children younger than 6, a recent study found an increase among older children.
The study notes dangerous social media challenges, as well as older adults with cognitive impairments like Alzheimer’s who may mistake the pods for food.
"Despite all of these public health and industry efforts, we're still seeing many, many people of all ages being exposed to these laundry detergent packets,” says health expert Dr. Christopher Gaw.
Experts recommend storing detergents out of reach of young children and keeping them in their original containers. If you suspect someone has been exposed to or ingested a laundry pod, contact the Poison Control Center.