On Saturday, a truck carrying Sodium Cyanide overturned in Rironi, Kiambu County. The Ministry of Health reports that drums containing the poisonous chemical have been looted from the scene by unknown locals.
In collaboration with the Kiambu County government, the Ministry has urged residents to return the highly toxic chemical.
Dangers of Sodium Cyanide
Sodium Cyanide is a white crystalline powder commonly used for extracting gold or silver, fumigation, electroplating, and chemical manufacturing. While it is odorless when dry, it emits a musty smell in its gaseous form. Sodium Cyanide can react with hydrogen to produce hydrogen cyanide, which is also highly lethal.
Research indicates that Sodium Cyanide is hazardous because it disrupts the body’s ability to use oxygen. Exposure is fatal as it affects vital organs like the brain, heart, and lungs. The chemical can harm the body through inhalation, ingestion, skin, and eye contact. It can also contaminate air, food, water, and soil due to its ability to convert to gas or liquid.
According to the CDC, ingestion of Sodium Cyanide causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and irritation of the esophagus and stomach lining. Inhalation symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Mild symptoms include headaches, confusion, anxiety, dizziness, loss of consciousness, and shortness of breath. Severe symptoms include seizures, dilated pupils, coma, cardiac arrest, and temporary blindness.
Immediate action is required if exposed to Sodium Cyanide. The affected individual should be removed from the site, and eyes should be rinsed with water if affected. Airways should be kept clear, and vomiting should not be induced if ingested. Symptoms should be monitored, and medical attention sought immediately.
Inhalation of the gas is particularly dangerous as symptoms can manifest within seconds to minutes, potentially leading to death. Prompt action is critical, as delayed exposure can cause permanent brain damage or memory loss.
If a spill occurs, avoid touching anything in the vicinity or walking through the area. Prevent entry into waterways, isolate the area, and ensure proper ventilation.
