In recent weeks, Málaga has seen a sharp rise in the number of teenagers hospitalized after taking part in a new dangerous online challenge. The premise of the game is to consume a large amount of paracetamol and then share the results on social media. Doctors warn that such actions can cause severe poisoning and require urgent medical intervention.
Medical staff report that some of those affected are children under 14. All were hospitalized with symptoms of serious intoxication, but fortunately, no fatalities have been recorded so far. Experts stress that such experiments with medication can end in tragedy, as even a single mistake can lead to irreversible health consequences.
Medical professionals respond
Pediatricians and emergency room staff emphasize that medicines easily accessible at home become easy targets for teens tempted to join dangerous games. Doctors advise parents to monitor their children’s behavior closely, especially if symptoms like vomiting, abdominal pain, or severe drowsiness appear. At the slightest suspicion, seeking medical help immediately is strongly recommended.
Doctors remind that all medications should be used only as directed and under adult supervision. They urge parents to explain to children that medicines are not toys and any experiments with dosage can lead to serious consequences. Special attention is given to ensuring that teenagers do not succumb to peer pressure or attempt to prove themselves through dangerous challenges.
The impact of social networks
Experts note that modern technology and the popularity of social media are creating new risks for teenagers. Viral challenges spread rapidly, involving more and more children in dangerous games. Doctors emphasize that it is important not only to control access to medications, but also to discuss with children the risks associated with such online trends.
Parents are advised to pay close attention to what is happening in their children’s online lives. If there are changes in behavior, it is worth talking with the child and explaining why such games can be dangerous. Medical professionals are confident that only joint efforts by families and specialists can help prevent new cases of poisoning.
Similar cases
In recent years, Spain has already seen cases of mass poisoning among teenagers due to participation in dangerous internet challenges. For example, in various regions of the country, teenagers have previously tried other medications or household chemicals in order to gain likes and views. Each time, these incidents have resulted in hospitalizations and lengthy recoveries. Doctors and educators continue to warn about the risks associated with such trends and urge parents to stay one step ahead to protect their children from new threats.
