Two Children Hospitalized After Consuming Hallucinogenic Mushroom Chocolate During Vacation

Two children aged 5.5 and 6.5 were urgently admitted to the pediatric emergency department at Galilee Medical Center after ingesting chocolate containing hallucinogenic mushrooms during a family vacation. Upon arrival, the children exhibited severely dilated pupils and hallucinations but were stable in terms of breathing and circulation. Initial evaluation revealed neurological symptoms, prompting consultation with the National Poison Information Center. The suspected poisoning involved Psilocybe or Panaeolus mushrooms, which contain active compounds that can cause hallucinations, increased blood pressure, and in severe cases, seizures and cardiac damage.

Due to the risk of worsening symptoms, both children were hospitalized for close monitoring in the pediatric intensive care unit. Dr. Sally Mahom, a pediatric emergency physician, stated that the children arrived confused with active hallucinations and dilated pupils, and immediate stabilization and treatment were initiated in coordination with the poison center. Dr. Zvi Sheleg, deputy director of the medical center, described the incident as serious and life-threatening but noted that thanks to the parents' vigilance and rapid medical response, no critical damage occurred. He urged the public to keep dangerous substances out of children's reach and seek immediate medical care if poisoning is suspected.