Two Children Hospitalized After Consuming Hallucinogenic Mushroom Chocolate During Family Vacation

Two young boys, aged 5 and 6, were urgently admitted to the Galilee Medical Center after ingesting chocolate containing hallucinogenic mushrooms during a family vacation. Upon arrival, the children exhibited severe neurological symptoms including confusion, dilated pupils, and hallucinations. Initial assessments confirmed they were stable in terms of breathing and circulation but showed signs of neurotoxicity.

Consultation with the National Poison Information Center suggested poisoning by Psilocybe or Panaeolus mushrooms, which contain active compounds that can induce hallucinations, elevated blood pressure, seizures, and in severe cases, cardiac damage. Due to the risk of worsening symptoms, both children were admitted 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, prompting immediate stabilization and treatment in coordination with poison control. Dr. Zvi Sheleg, deputy director of the Galilee Medical Center, described the incident as life-threatening but noted the outcome was favorable thanks to parental vigilance and rapid medical intervention. He urged the public to keep hazardous substances out of children's reach and seek immediate medical care if poisoning is suspected.