Popular Squishy Toy Causes Severe Chemical Burns to Seven-Year-Old Girl in Israel

A seven-and-a-half-year-old girl in Israel suffered serious chemical burns after a popular squishy toy she received at summer camp exploded. The incident occurred shortly after she finished first grade and was playing innocently with the toy, which unexpectedly burst, releasing a chemical liquid that caused second-degree burns on her hands and legs. She was rushed to the pediatric emergency department at Hadassah Ein Kerem hospital for urgent treatment.

Dr. Lea Sarna Kahan, a senior physician at Hadassah’s pediatric emergency room, described the girl’s condition upon arrival, noting large blisters and significant pain. The burns required immediate care from the hospital’s burn unit, including wound cleaning and dressing under sedation by the plastic surgery team. Dr. Sarna Kahan emphasized the importance of immediate washing with running water if skin contact occurs and seeking emergency care if symptoms worsen.

The girl’s mother recounted the progression of symptoms, from initial redness and glitter-like particles on the skin to severe blistering by the third day. She highlighted that the toy was well-known and frequently used by her daughter without prior issues, and that unlike other cases, the toy was not heated. The liquid’s prolonged activity on the skin caused the extensive burns. After treatment, the girl’s condition improved and pain subsided.

The toy was purchased in Israel from a store supplying kindergartens and schools. The mother urged parents and importers to exercise caution and monitor children closely when playing with such toys, especially those imported without supervision. She also called for stricter import controls following previous incidents involving similar products. Authorities are reportedly investigating the safety of these toys to prevent further harm.