Two Toddlers Hospitalized After Ingesting Toxic Liquid from Keychain Toys in Jerusalem

Within less than 12 hours, two toddlers were rushed to the pediatric emergency room at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem after ingesting a chemical liquid that leaked from keychain toys. The incidents raised concerns after the keychains reportedly cracked while the children put them in their mouths, causing the toxic liquid inside to spill out and be swallowed.

The first case involved an 11-month-old infant who began coughing, sweating, turning pale, and becoming lethargic shortly after playing with a keychain gifted by his grandmother. His mother described the liquid as having a strong chemical odor. He was hospitalized for observation and oxygen treatment but remained febrile and under medical supervision.

Hours later, a 1.5-year-old toddler was admitted with symptoms of chemical pneumonia after ingesting a similar liquid from a cracked keychain. His mother noted the keychain had a small hole and emitted a petroleum-like smell. The child was weak, drowsy, and under close monitoring. Both keychains were reportedly inexpensive products distributed at a school and purchased from a discount store.

Dr. Mati Ehrlichman, a senior pediatric emergency physician at Shaare Zedek, explained that the exact chemical composition of these keychain liquids is unknown, and such products are widely sold in stores. Treatment focuses on respiratory monitoring and oxygen support, with no antibiotics needed since the pneumonia is chemical rather than bacterial. He emphasized the importance of parental awareness and recommended avoiding such products to prevent similar incidents.

The hospital plans to report these cases to the Ministry of Health to address the safety risks posed by these keychain toys.

Summary: Two toddlers in Jerusalem were hospitalized after swallowing toxic liquid from cracked keychain toys, one developing chemical pneumonia. Medical staff warn parents about the dangers of such products and urge caution.

Points: - Two toddlers ingested toxic liquid from cracked keychain toys and were hospitalized in Jerusalem. - One toddler developed chemical pneumonia requiring close medical monitoring. - The liquid had a strong chemical or petroleum-like odor and came from inexpensive keychains. - Doctors do not know the exact chemicals involved but warn parents of the risks. - Treatment includes respiratory support; no antibiotics are needed for chemical pneumonia. - Shaare Zedek hospital will report the incidents to the Ministry of Health for further action.