Two children, ages 5 and 6, from central Israel were urgently brought today (Sunday) to the Galilee Emergency Medical Center with severely dilated pupils and experiencing hallucinations, after being exposed to chocolate containing hallucinogenic mushrooms during a family vacation.
Upon arrival at the MRD, the children underwent an initial assessment, which found that they were respiratory and hemodynamically stable, but suffering from neurological symptoms.
After consulting with the National Poison Information Center, suspicion arose of poisoning from Psilocybe/Panaeolus mushrooms, which contain active substances that may cause hallucinations, increased blood pressure, and in severe cases, seizures and heart damage.
Due to the risk of developing additional symptoms, the two were hospitalized for close observation and monitoring in the pediatric intensive care unit.
Dr. Sally Makhom, a physician at the Children's Emergency Department: "The children came to us in a state of confusion, dilated pupils, and active hallucinations. We immediately acted to stabilize them and, in coordination with the National Poison Center, we began treatment and monitoring. Due to the volatile nature of this type of poisoning, they were transferred for continued continuous supervision in pediatric intensive care.".
Dr. Zvi Sheleg, Deputy Director of the Galilee Medical Center: "This is a serious and life-threatening incident that has so far ended without critical injury thanks to the parents' vigilance and the rapid treatment of our medical teams. We call on the public to exercise maximum responsibility, to keep dangerous substances out of reach of toddlers and children, and to seek immediate medical attention if there is any suspicion of poisoning.".
