Eight-Year-Old Girl Injured After Being Sucked Into Jacuzzi Pump at Northern Israel Cabin

An eight-year-old girl from Beit Shemesh was urgently hospitalized after being forcefully sucked against the wall of a jacuzzi pump during a family vacation at a cabin in northern Israel. Despite adult supervision, the girl became trapped for several minutes, causing severe pain and difficulty breathing. Her family struggled to free her, and only after her father unplugged the jacuzzi's power supply was she released.

The girl was taken to Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital's pediatric emergency department with extensive subcutaneous bleeding and intense pain on her upper back. Dr. Nurit Feinstein and senior physician Dr. Deborah Friedler examined her, noting a large hematoma, swelling, and tenderness. Due to concerns about internal injuries from the vacuum effect, including possible damage to bones, muscles, or lungs, she underwent a CT scan while lying on her stomach to minimize pain.

Plastic surgery specialist Dr. Lior Solomon was consulted and warned of potentially irreversible skin damage and necrosis. Fortunately, no internal organ damage was found. After receiving strong painkillers and treatment, the girl was discharged with instructions for follow-up care at the plastic surgery clinic.

The girl's mother, who has seven children, described the terrifying incident, explaining that the girl had been sitting near one of the pump openings when she suddenly screamed in pain. Attempts to turn off the jacuzzi failed until her father unplugged it. The suction cover was found unsecured and easily detached, posing a hidden danger despite careful supervision. The mother urged other parents to check jacuzzi suction systems before allowing children to enter the water.

The hospital continues to monitor the girl for potential necrotic damage, highlighting the risks associated with jacuzzi pumps even under adult supervision.