Queenslanders in Metro South region hospitalised after believed to have ingested rat poison

Five Queenslanders have been hospitalised after ingesting rat poison, with the health department working to investigate the source.

The patients were all from the Metro South Health region — which encompasses Brisbane south side, Logan, Redlands and Scenic Rim regions — and presented to hospitals in the past week with symptoms consistent with brodifacoum poisoning.

Brodifacoum is the active ingredient in rat poison.

It reduces vitamin K in the body, which is needed for blood to clot. If ingested, brodifacoum can cause bleeding-related complications, which can be deadly.

Symptoms include nosebleeds, gum bleeding, internal bleeding and low blood pressure.

Vitamin K is used as the antidote.

Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall said investigations are underway to determine the source of the poisonings.

“No link or source has been identified so far,” she said.

“Clinicians have been asked to monitor for presentations with similar symptoms.”

All five people taken to hospital are in good health and receiving treatment.

McDougall said the community should not be alarmed and that Queensland Health will put out further alerts if there is a risk to public health.

“I encourage anyone with concerns about their health to see their doctor, present to the emergency department or contact 13 43 25,” she said.