News & Info

On 18th September 2025, a training and brainstorming session on the use of MyPID (My Poison Information Database) for poison information management was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya. The session was led by Dr. Gill Jackson from the Edinburgh Clinical Toxicology (EdinClinTox), United Kingdom, who shared her expertise in poison data recording, analysis, and information retrieval.

The workshop aimed to familiarise participants with the features of the MyPID platform, including structured data entry, case documentation, and generating analytical outputs that support both clinical decision-making and research. Special emphasis was placed on ensuring data accuracy, standardisation, and security—key elements in building a reliable national resource for poison information.

Poison Information Specialists from KidsToxLK actively participated in the session, engaging in interactive discussions and hands-on demonstrations. They explored how the platform could be adapted to the local context in Sri Lanka, particularly in strengthening real-time poison information services, supporting surveillance of poisoning trends, and guiding public health interventions. This training marked an important step in enhancing the digital infrastructure of poison information services.

On 17 September 2025, the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya inaugurated the KidsToxLK Paediatric Poison Information & Research Center — a pioneering initiative designed to strengthen Sri Lanka’s response to childhood poisoning and intoxication. 

KidsToxLK has been established with a threefold mission: to provide rapid, evidence-based poison information during emergency situations; to build capacity and strengthen the skills of paediatric healthcare providers through training and continuous professional development; and to advance research and surveillance on the patterns, causes, management, and outcomes of paediatric poisoning, thereby shaping prevention strategies and improving the quality of clinical care. 

As part of its services, KidsToxLK makes use of internationally recognised resources such as TOXBASE, the UK National Poisons Information Database, to access up-to-date, evidence based clinical guidance on managing poisoning cases. For data recording, monitoring, and analysis, the Center employs MyPID, a dedicated platform that supports systematic documentation of paediatric poisoning incidents. Together, these tools enhance the accuracy, reliability, and responsiveness of the information provided by KidsToxLK.  

The Center has received technical support from the NIHR RIGHT 4 program, led by the University of Edinburgh, which works to reduce poisoning-related deaths in low- and middle income countries. Looking ahead, KidsToxLK aims to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Health to expand its services nationwide. 

The launch event was graced by the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Professor Madawa Chandratilake alongside, the Director of the Center, Professor Kavinda Dayasiri, and several specialists in poisoning and toxicology.