Two children, ages 5 and 6, were rushed Sunday to the pediatric emergency department at Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya with severely dilated pupils and hallucinations after eating chocolate containing hallucinogenic mushrooms during a vacation in Achziv with two families.
The children were experiencing hallucinations and were admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit for observation.
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Upon arrival at the emergency department, the children underwent an initial evaluation and were found to be stable in terms of their breathing and heart function but were showing neurological symptoms. After consultation with the Israel Poison Information Center, doctors suspected poisoning from Psilocybe and Panaeolus mushrooms, two of the world's most common types of mushrooms containing the psychoactive compound psilocybin. Because of the risk of additional symptoms developing, both children were hospitalized for observation and close monitoring in the pediatric intensive care unit.
Psilocybin is a psychedelic substance that acts on serotonin receptors in the brain and can cause changes in perception and mood as well as hallucinations. In the body, it is converted into psilocin, the active compound that produces the effects. In addition to hallucinations, poisoning from these mushrooms can cause confusion, dilated pupils and elevated blood pressure and, in severe cases, seizures and impaired heart function.
Mushrooms of these types grow naturally in open areas, pastures and damp environments and are sometimes deliberately consumed for their psychedelic effects. The concentration of the active substance varies from one mushroom to another, meaning any consumption can produce strong and unpredictable effects, particularly in children.
Dr. Sally Makhom, a physician in the pediatric emergency department, said: "The children arrived in a state of confusion, with dilated pupils and active hallucinations. We immediately worked to stabilize them and, in coordination with the Israel Poison Information Center, began treatment and monitoring. Because of the unpredictable nature of this type of poisoning, they were transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit for continuous observation."
Dr. Tsvi Sheleg, deputy director of Galilee Medical Center, said: "This was a serious, life-threatening incident that, so far, has not resulted in critical harm thanks to the parents' vigilance and the rapid treatment provided by our medical teams. We urge the public to exercise the utmost responsibility, keep dangerous substances out of the reach of toddlers and children and seek immediate medical attention in any suspected case of poisoning."
Beterem-Safe Kids Israel said seven children died from poisoning over the decade from 2016 through 2025. Health Ministry data show that more than 2,500 children visit emergency rooms each year because of poisoning.
Beterem CEO Orly Silbiger said: "This serious case brings attention to a dangerous and tragic phenomenon that could have been prevented. Children are curious and explore the world through their mouths. They are not deterred by smell or color. Responsibility for their safety lies with us, the parents and adults around them. The best way to prevent poisoning is to keep dangerous substances out of children's reach, lock them away and store them in a high, inaccessible place."