Epidemiological alert - Intoxications due to chemical substances associated with social media challenges - 18 December 2024

In recent months, there has been a significant increase in intoxications associated with the ingestion or inhalation of chemical substances related to challenges posted on social media that encourage the consumption of these substances for recreational or other purposes, mainly among adolescents. The Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) recommends Member States to implement mechanisms to detect intoxications due to substances related to challenges on social media and to promote prevention and awareness strategies to reduce the risks associated with these practices.