What is dangerous about the pesticide diazinon (Ortho or Spectracide) and its chemical cousin dursban (Lorsban or chlorpyrifos)?
They are both in the chemical category called organophosphates. They both damage the nervous system so the nerve impulses cannot travel along the nerve pathways of insects – but humans, fish, bees and birds are similarly affected. They both are more dangerous for children than adults. There are also acute and reproductive risks for non-target aquatic and terrestrial animals. Diazinon Diazinon has been used on lawns, gardens, agricultural crops and livestock as an insecticide or nematocide (for worms). It has caused nausea, dizziness, burning sensations, headaches, blurred visions, stomach and muscle cramps, twitching, diarrhea, aching joints, disorientation and an inability to concentrate. If there is a major spill, this chemical can cause respiratory paralysis and then death. Up to 18 million pounds of diazinon were used yearly in the United States until it was banned in December 2000. In 2000, it was the leading cause of acute reactions to insecticides and is still being used to cont
