Quebec Four-Year-Old Hospitalised After Allegedly Eating Cannabis-Infused Halloween Chocolate

A four-year-old boy in Quebec has been hospitalised after allegedly eating Halloween chocolate containing cannabis, prompting his stepmother to warn parents to carefully inspect treats collected by children.

Rebeka Lefebvre said she took her stepson, Mylan, to hospital last Thursday after he complained that some chocolate tasted unusual and began drooling.

According to Lefebvre, a nurse initially assessed the child and discharged them. However, as they were leaving the hospital, Mylan reportedly fell to the floor, began crying and developed a rapidly increasing heart rate.

Hospital Test Detects THC

Lefebvre said a urine test conducted at the hospital detected traces of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for its intoxicating effects.

She described the experience as frightening, saying the family was overwhelmed by anxiety and fear when they saw the child becoming unwell.

Lefebvre said she had inspected Mylan's Halloween treats before allowing him to eat them, but nothing appeared unusual to her.

The Sûreté du Québec (SQ) is now investigating the incident. A police spokesperson confirmed to CTV News that an investigation was underway.

Stepmother Urges Parents to Be Vigilant

Following the incident, Lefebvre shared a warning on social media, urging parents to remain cautious about Halloween candy given to their children.

She also expressed sadness over negative reactions from some people who blamed the family for what happened, insisting that she and her partner do not use drugs or drink alcohol.

The child is now recovering at home.

Doctor Warns of Cannabis Risks to Children

Cardiologist Dr Christopher Labos of the McGill University Health Centre said cannabis ingestion by children should be treated seriously.

He advised parents to seek medical attention or contact Quebec's poison control centre if a child consumes cannabis.

Labos warned that severe exposure to high doses of cannabis can cause serious complications in young children, including seizures, coma and, in extreme cases, death.

Quebec's poison control centre is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 1-800-463-5060.

CTV News