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El Paso's Poison Control Center Highlights Importance of Poison Prevention Awareness

KVIA••Rosemary Garcia
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The West Texas Regional Poison Center, located at University Medical Center of El Paso, is emphasizing the significance of Poison Prevention Week. As the first bilingual poison control center in the U.S., it received over 33,000 calls in 2025, with 7,000 from El Paso County alone. Dr. Salvador Baeza, the center's director, noted that 60% of calls involve drugs, with nearly half concerning young children who often access household items. The center aims to provide guidance to prevent unnecessary ER visits, urging residents to utilize their services for poison-related inquiries. The Poison Help Hotline can be reached at 1-800-222-1222 for assistance.

Key Details: • Poison Help Hotline: 1-800-222-1222 • In 2025, the center handled over 33,000 calls, including 7,000 from El Paso County. • 60% of calls are drug-related, with nearly 50% involving young children. • Call the center before heading to the ER for poison-related incidents.

community health safety prevention poisoning

People & Organizations

University Medical Center of El PasoEl Paso CountyDr. Salvador BaezaWest Texas Regional Poison CenterAmerica’s Poison Centers

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