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Is Bora Care Lethal to Humans?

Bora-Care is an insecticide used primarily in treating structures infested with wood destroying insects. Though only slightly toxic to humans, it can be lethal if ingested in large amounts.

  1. How does Bora-Care work?

    • Bora-Care's main active ingredient is borate salt and the pesticide is applied directly to the affected structure itself. Once ingested by the insect, Bora-Care blocks the insect's ability to process nutrients and the insect starves.

    Types of Contact

    • Bora-Care can act as a mild irritant when it comes in contact with the eye or when the chemical's vapors are inhaled. While oral ingestion is the most dangerous way to ingest the pesticide, Bora-Care is not known to be a skin irritant unless there are pre-existing conditions.

    Lethal Dose

    • According to a material safety data sheet by Borate Products, an amount of 5 grams or more of Bora-Care for each kilogram of body weight is considered a lethal dose in humans.

    Warning Signs and Side Effects

    • Some signs of over-exposure to Bora-Care are nausea, drowsiness and dizziness. If exposed to the eye, Bora-Care may cause burning or irritation. Orally ingested, the insecticide can cause difficulty in breathing, kidney or brain damage, heart failure and death.

    Treatment

    • If Bora-Care is orally ingested professional medical attention should be sought immediately.

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