Two kids die after consuming poisonous mushrooms in Shangla

A distressing incident unfolded in the village of Dherai Dolo in Shangla Alpuri in KP, where six children fell seriously ill after consuming a local mushroom known as 'Khariri'.

Tragically, two of the children succumbed to the toxic effects on Friday, while the other four are battling for their lives in a nearby hospital, in critical conditions, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

The occurrence wasn't an isolated one. In another heart-rending episode in Tehsil Puran of Shangla, two young girls met their untimely demise after ingesting the same variety of mushroom.

Mushrooms, especially of the 'Khariri' variety, are notorious for their deceiving appearance. Resembling eggs, they sprout abundantly during the monsoon season. Their innocent look can be lethal, luring unsuspecting children into consuming them.

Local authorities and health experts are urging communities to exercise extreme caution. Educating the local population about the dangers of wild mushrooms, particularly during the monsoon season, is of paramount importance. Parents and guardians are also being encouraged to instill awareness in their children and keep a vigilant eye to prevent such calamities from recurring.

As the communities mourn the loss of young lives, it is hoped that such incidents will prompt a more robust community response and public health initiatives, focusing on the dangers of foraging and consuming unidentified wild produce.

Reporter Sohail Khan