The National Public Health Organization (EODY) has issued a recommendation to label oleander plants as potentially toxic and, where feasible, to fence them off to prevent children’s access.
The organization explained that this is due to the fact that 15–20 poisoning incidents in children are recorded each year, although they are mild in nature, since “the milky sap present in all parts of the plant is rich in toxic substances.”
“The leaves, flowers, and stems of oleander contain high concentrations of toxins, mainly glycosides such as oleandrin (a triterpenoid glycoside), neriine, and thebaine, making oleander dangerous for both humans and animals,” the statement notes.
EODY had issued a circular recommending the removal of the plant from schoolyards, playgrounds, parks, and sidewalks.
EODY places particular emphasis on schools and parks, where the risk of children’s exposure is greater, while their lower body weight and higher likelihood of ingestion or contact make them more vulnerable.
Around a month earlier, EODY had issued guidance on oleander, recommending its removal from schoolyards, playgrounds, parks, and sidewalks.
The issuance of the circular triggered reactions from organizations, which, among other things, point out that “oleander is a longstanding element of the Greek landscape,” calling for a balanced approach rather than the uprooting of the plants.
Sources: Καθημερινή, Lifo
