Water-nitrate methemoglobinemia is a disease associated with the consumption of water containing a high concentration of nitrates, which exceeds the norms established by sanitary rules (more than 50 mg/dm3). When entering the gastrointestinal tract, nitrates are reduced to nitrites under the influence of intestinal microflora. It is these substances that are dangerous for humans. Nitrites combine with hemoglobin and form methemoglobin, which "blocks" the main function of hemoglobin - the transfer of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the body. This causes oxygen starvation of the tissues.
Water-nitrate methemoglobinemia is most often diagnosed in children under 3 years of age, and especially in infants who are formula-fed with infant formulas prepared with water with a high nitrate content.
According to the State Institution "Kharkiv Regional Center for Control and Prevention" diseases of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine"» The second case of child poisoning with nitrates this year has been registered in the Kharkiv region.
In order to prevent the occurrence of this dangerous disease, it is necessary to:
- do not use drinking water from wells and other sources of decentralized water supply for preparing baby food, if you are not sure of its quality or the nitrate content in it exceeds the regulatory indicators. It is advisable to use packaged/bottled water for preparing baby food;
- use mineral and organic fertilizers cautiously in agriculture and the private sector;
- observe hygienic requirements when arranging and operating wells (insulate the walls of the wells, equip a clay castle, equip sheds, a cover). In accordance with sanitary requirements, wells must be cleaned at least once a year, namely: pump out the water, clean the walls with metal brushes from plaque and the bottom from sediment, unnecessary things that could accidentally get into the well, with subsequent disinfection. After that, the water must be pumped out again and the well must be used after the next filling;
- Water contaminated with nitrates can only be used for technical purposes: laundry, cleaning, etc.
Remember that boiling nitrate-contaminated water increases its toxicity! Take care of your own health and the health of your children!
Chuhuyiv District Department of the Main Department of the State Service for Food and Consumer Protection in Kharkiv Region