HORSEHEADS - As more people come down with the flu, many of you are turning to anti-bacterial gel or wipes to kill germs.But these gels could be hazardous for your children.
Health officials say consuming the liquid could cause pain to the mouth or vomiting.
Some parents say they are closely watching their children.
“Usually I wash mine first, and then I will wash his. So that way I can monitor how much he is getting, but I just rub it right on his hands for him that way I know he's not getting too much or too little”, said Alexis Palmer.
“Not be by themselves, you know I supervise them. After they wash they like to use it”, said Gail Futherland.
Officials from the Finger Lakes Poison Control Center say their calls doubled last month because of children licking or drinking anti-bacterial gel.
They say it won't cause severe damage.
However, you should contact the poison control center immediately.
“I say call us, even if it's a lick, not so much that it's going to create a severe problem, it's because it eases the mind of the parent”, said Norma Barton of the Finger Lakes Poison Control Center.
Barton says if you child does consume the liquid you should wipe their tongue and lips and give them a glass of water.
When it comes to prevention, you should treat the gel as if it were a poison.
“With hand gel it's all about storage and supervision. As it is with any other chemical. Proper storage, proper supervision is going to keep your child safe”, said Amy Davis of the Finger Lakes Poison Control Center.
Officials say another reason why children are consuming anti-bacterial is the shape of the bottles.
Since younger children can't read the labels, it could be confused for something like a bottle of water.
The number of the poison control center is: 1-800-222-1222.
