The Israeli Health Ministry has launched an investigation into suspected food poisoning cases affecting toddlers at two daycare centers, with several children hospitalized for treatment, officials confirmed Wednesday.
Initial reports indicate at least 12 children under age 3 exhibited vomiting and diarrhea symptoms after consuming meals prepared on-site. Emergency responders transported four cases to Tel Hashomer Medical Center for dehydration treatment.
‘We’re testing all food preparation surfaces and interviewing staff about meal protocols,’ said a ministry spokesperson who requested anonymity as the investigation continues. The affected facilities in central Israel have been temporarily closed for sanitation review.
Food safety experts note this marks the third daycare-related poisoning incident this year, following January’s E. coli outbreak in Haifa that sickened 8 children. ‘These recurring cases suggest systemic gaps in kitchen hygiene training,’ said Dr. Miriam Cohen, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Ben-Gurion University.
The ministry will present preliminary findings to the Knesset’s Health Committee next week, with proposed reforms expected to include mandatory food handler certifications for daycare workers.