Protecting Texans from Harm: The Vital Work of the Texas Poison Center Network

A Lifesaving Resource for All Texans

Every day, Texans face unexpected encounters with substances that could pose serious risks to their health. Whether it's a child swallowing household cleaner, a reaction to a plant or insect sting, or a medication mix-up, poisonings can happen in the blink of an eye. Thankfully, the Texas Poison Center Network (TPCN) is here to help- 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Accessible by calling 1-800-222-1222, the TPCN provides immediate, expert medical advice to anyone who suspects a poisoning or needs information about potentially hazardous substances. 

An Extensive Network with Statewide Research

The TPCN is composed of six regional poison centers, each hosted by major hospitals across Texas. These centers are interconnected through a robust telecommunications network, ensuring that no call goes unanswered- even if one center is overwhelmed or temporarily closed. 

In fact, when Hurricane Ike forced the Southeast Texas center to shut down in 2008, other centers seamlessly picked up the slack, keeping Texans safe without delay or disruption. 

Fast, Free, and Expert Help

With over 230,000 calls annually, the TPCN assists both the public and medical professionals. More than 32% of calls come from doctors, nurses, EMS providers, and pharmacists seeking toxicology advice. And for the general public, 87% of poison exposure cases are managed entirely at home, thanks to guidance from specially trained nurses, doctors, and pharmacists. This approach saves Texans over $85.5 million in avoided healthcare costs every year. 

Multilingual, Accessible, and Always Available

No matter your language or ability, TPCN ensures that you can get the help you need. Interpretation services are available in over 160 languages, and the system is TTY-compatible for those who are deaf and hard of hearing. Callers will never hear a busy signal- calls are automatically routed to the next available poison center expert. 

What to Expect When You Call

When you call, specialists may ask for:

• Your name, zip code, and phone number
• Name and age of the exposed person
• Product name and amount involved
• Medical history, medications, or allergies 

A Partner in Public Health

The TPCN isn't just for emergencies- it also plays a critical role in public health surveillance, working alongside the CDC to monitor and report trends like foodborne illnesses, disease outbreaks, or potential bioterrorist threats. Because of this role, TPCN is exempt from certain HIPAA privacy regulations, allowing it to act quickly and effectively in crisis situations. 

More Than Just Emergency Help

In addition to emergency support, the TPCN offers education and resources on:

• Drug identification and Information
• Environmental Hazards like lead, carbon monoxide, and radiation
• Medical and Occupational Toxicology 
• Poison Prevention and Safety
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Exposure Risks

Know the Forms of Poison

Poisons can appear in many forms:

• Solids (e.g., pills)
• Liquids (e.g., household cleaners)
• Sprays (e.g., disinfectants)
• Gases (e.g., carbon monoxide)

A toxin, by contrast, is a naturally occurring poison from a plant, animal, or insect. 

Don't Wait- Call Now

If you think someone has been exposed to a poison, don't wait. Call the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222 immediately. For unconsciousness, breathing difficulties, or seizures, dial 911.

With expert guidance, multilingual support, and round-the-clock availability, the TPCN is a trusted lifeline for every Texan. 

Can Vitamin A Prevent Measles? What You Need to Know

As of April 8, 2025, Texas has reported 505 measles cases, with most occurring in the Panhandle and South Plains regions. With numbers like these, it's no surprise that people are talking about ways to protect themselves and their families. One topic that keeps popping up? Vitamin A.

So can vitamin A help prevent measles? Let's break down what the experts and research really say.

The Role of Vitamin A in Measles

In the past measles outbreaks, health experts learned more about how vitamin A affects illness. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF said that vitamin A can help kids recover from measles. This is especially true of children who don't have enough vitamin A in their bodies. 

Health groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and WHO say a person is low in vitamin A if they have less than 10 micrograms per deciliter in their blood. Research done in places like Indonesia, Africa, and Asia between 1983 and 1992 found that giving vitamin A to vitamin-deficient kids with measles lowered the risk of dying by 30 to 50%. 

Is Vitamin A Deficiency a Problem in the U.S.? 

Thankfully, vitamin A deficiency is rare in the United States. Most people get enough from their everyday diets. Foods rich in vitamin A include:

• Leafy Greens (like Spinach and Kale)
• Orange veggies (such as carrots and sweet potatoes)
• Dairy products (like milk, eggs, and cheese)
• Meats and Fish

Most people in the U.S. get enough vitamin A from their food. But, doctors still give vitamin A to kids who have measles. This treatment should always be guided by a healthcare provider to make sure the right, safe amount is used. While vitamin A might help treat measles in some cases, research shows it does not prevent someone from getting measles in the first place. 

Can Vitamin A Prevent Measles?

Here's the bottom line: No, vitamin A doesn't prevent measles. During a 2019 measles outbreak turned to cod liver oil- a natural source of vitamin A- as an alternative. Despite their commitment to taking cod liver oil regularly, measles still spread in those areas. This shows that vitamin A is not a substitute for vaccination.

A Word of Caution: Too Much Vitamin A Can Be Harmful 

Vitamin A is a type of vitamin that your body stores in fat. Because it stays in your body, too much of it can build up over time. When a doctor tells you how much to take, it's usually safe.  But taking too much- especially for a few weeks- can be harmful. 

Signs of Vitamin A Overload in Adults

• Headaches 
• Mood swings or confusion
• Blurry vision 
• Dry or peeling skin

In Babies:

• Bulging soft spots on the head

In severe cases, liver damage and/or brain swelling can occur.

Final Thoughts

While vitamin A plays a supportive role in helping kids recover from measles, it is not a replacement for the measles vaccine. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles is through vaccination. 

Have questions about vitamin A, the MMR vaccine, or measles prevention? Contact your local health provider or call the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222- we're here to help, 24.7.