Title: Two More Hospitalized After Inhaling Foam Gas; Ministry of Health Urges Public to Beware
Subtitle: As cases of neurological damage rise, authorities crack down on illegal sale of gas foam
Date: [Insert Date]
By [Author Name]
In the wake of last month’s incidents where two young men were hospitalized after inhaling foam gas, two young women have now been hospitalized with severe neurological damage after using the same substance. The victims, who reside in the southern region, reportedly used the foam gas at a party, experiencing symptoms such as a drop in blood pressure, paranoia, anxiety, dizziness, and even hallucinations.
According to the Ministry of Health, the use of “gas foam” has become a widespread phenomenon, particularly among children and teenagers. Consequently, hundreds of thousands of containers filled with this dangerous gas have been seized over the past year alone. Authorities warn that the illicit gas is being sold illegally at parties as well as in supermarkets nationwide, posing serious risks to users.
In efforts to tackle this growing issue, the Ministry of Health has taken collaborative action with law enforcement agencies. Over the past year, hundreds of thousands of “Katsafet gas” containers have been confiscated. Recently, a joint operation involving the Department of Enforcement and Supervision of the Ministry of Health, along with the Israel Police, led to the seizure of large quantities of gas suspected to be sold to teenagers during explosions in Ashdod. In addition, two locations selling gas containers have been ordered to be shut down in the past year.
Leading neurologist, Prof. Gal Ifergan, the director of the neurology department at Soroka University Medical Center, warns that the use of the “cream gas,” also known as “laughing gas,” can cause severe damage to the nervous system, with long-lasting and sometimes permanent effects. He compared the damage caused by uncontrolled use of the gas to a severe deficiency of vitamin B12, resulting in disturbances in sensation, difficulty walking, and cognitive impairments.
Dr. Roni Berkowitz, Director of the Division for Enforcement and Supervision at the Ministry of Health, expressed concern over the dangers posed to children and teenagers by the use of foam gas. He emphasized that the seemingly innocent product may lead to severe side effects, some of which can be life-threatening. Dr. Berkowitz called on young people to prioritize their health and avoid using gas foam. Additionally, he urged parents to educate themselves about the dangers of the product and have open conversations with their children about the risks.
The Ministry of Health is continuing its efforts to combat the illegal sale and use of foam gas, determined to protect the welfare of the public, especially children and teenagers. It advises anyone who comes across the illegal gas or suspects its sale to report to the authorities immediately.
As investigations continue and awareness about the hazards of gas foam spreads, the hope is that the number of hospitalizations related to its use will decrease, and individuals will make safer choices for their well-being.