In some countries, including Japan and the Republic of Korea, the onset of the typical seasonal influenza activity period started earlier than in previous years. A majority of influenza detections from sentinel and non-sentinel primary care and hospital surveillance systems were A(H3N2) viruses. As of 21 November 2025, reported rates of influenza-like illness (ILI) and/or acute respiratory infection (ARI) in primary care were at baseline levels for most countries and areas of the WHO European Region. WHO’s Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2030 highlights the steps required to provide appropriate interventions for people with mental disorders including depression.

Toad venom poisoning: resemblance to digoxin toxicity and therapeutic implications

The majority of patients with toad venom poisoning have detectable digoxin concentrations. Suggested approach to treating patients with suspected toad venom poisoning Table 1 outlines a suggested approach to treating patients with toad venom poisoning. Toads have toxic substances in the skin and parotid glands.1,3,4 Ingestion of toad or toad cake can lead to intoxication. Toad venom poisoning is similar to digitalis toxicity and carries a high mortality. Seek care from your local health professional if you have flu-like symptoms.

When threatened or attacked, the Woodhouse toad can secrete bufotoxin from these glands, effectively poisoning its attacker. Bufotoxin is a complex mixture of chemicals that is found in the parotoid glands of Woodhouse toads. It is worth noting that while Woodhouse toads may not pose a significant threat to humans, it is always best to admire wildlife from a safe distance and avoid unnecessary interactions. Like many other toads, Woodhouse toads have specialized skin glands called parotoid glands. In this article, we will explore whether Woodhouse toads are truly poisonous and if they pose a threat to human health.

WHO recognizes the increasing global public health concern posed by fungal infections and is committed to addressing this threat through various initiatives. For those with weakened immune systems, regular medical check-ups and prophylactic antifungal medications may be necessary to prevent invasive candidiasis. Managing underlying conditions such as diabetes can reduce the risk of candidiasis. Maintaining good hygiene, especially in moist areas, is important in preventing candidiasis on the skin. There is extensive discussion about the connection between diet and candidiasis, including whether high sugar intake can cause yeast infections. Tests and treatments also need to improve and be more widely available, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why cane toads are considered dangerous to humans and the measures taken to manage their presence in different regions. Toad toxin poisoning is manifest primarily by digitalis toxicity-like cardiac effects, including bradycardia, atrioventricular conduction block, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and sudden death.1–7 Patients usually have unexplained bradycardia, possibly with a normal blood pressure. Digoxin specific Fab fragment has bromide detox symptoms been reported to be beneficial in the treatment of toad venom poisoning.4 We describe a fatal case of ingestion of an aphrodisiac suspected to be toad venom, alerting physicians to a new community toxic exposure, and how prompt treatment with digoxin specific Fab fragment may be life saving. These toads produce toxins as a defense mechanism against predators.

However, their toxic venom poses a threat to native wildlife. When threatened, these glands release venom that can cause harm to humans and other animals. The presence of positive serum digoxin concentrations confirmed the role of toad venom in his condition. The man developed gastrointestinal symptoms and subsequently experienced severe bradycardia, hyperkalemia, and acidosis. Smoked toad venom, also known as chan su, is a traditional medicine used in China and other parts of Asia.

• Post COVID-19 Condition, commonly known as long COVID, can affect anyone exposed to SARS-CoV-2, regardless of age or severity of original symptoms.
• Among the 180 documented cases of toad toxin poisoning, a diverse array of exposure pathways was noted.
• Inform your healthcare provider of any exposure to sick or dead animals.
• It is imperative to exercise caution when handling these toads and avoid ingesting them or their secretions.
• The primary source of toxicity in the Colorado River toad comes from its skin secretions.
• Research on these toxins could lead to important discoveries in the field of medicine.
• According to foreign toxicologists, in 2000, the fatality rate did not exceed 5%, and in 2007 – 1.8%.

In conclusion, Woodhouse toads do produce toxins that can be harmful to their natural predators, but they are not highly poisonous or deadly to humans. Direct contact with a Woodhouse toad's skin or accidental ingestion of the toxins is unlikely to cause serious harm to humans. It can cause a range of symptoms when ingested or exposed to the skin, including nausea, vomiting, irregular heart rhythm, seizures, and even death in severe cases.

These toxins can cause a range of health complications if ingested or come into contact with the skin. This toad produces toxic compounds, called bufotoxins, which it uses as a defense mechanism against predators. In severe cases, antidotes may be administered to counteract the effects of the toad's toxins.

Symptoms of Toadstool

The toxin can be absorbed through the skin and cause irritation, rashes, and inflammation. Children and pets are particularly vulnerable as they may mistake the toads for toys or food. This toxin, known as bufotoxin, contains several chemicals, including bufotenine and bufagin. They were introduced to various countries, including Australia, to control pests in sugarcane fields. Cane celebs famous fetal alcohol syndrome adults toads (Rhinella marina), also known as Bufo toads, are invasive species native to Central and South America.

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infection

If that's not gross enough, they also have large triangular glands behind their heads that excrete a highly toxic white goo when the toads are stressed or grabbed. Adults are larger than native toads and frogs, measuring 4 to 6 inches, and their skin is warty. Toadstool poisoning is a serious health hazard that requires immediate medical attention.

Webinar program on mental health and post COVID-19 condition Promoting the health of refugees and migrants during COVID-19 pandemic WHO regularly conducts risk assessments for graded emergencies in accordance with the WHO Emergency Response Framework. Public health intelligence (PHI) is key to early warning alert and response (EWAR), and is vital in protecting the health of the populations in the context...

Toadstool Poisoning: Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention

• After several fatal cases of toad venom poisoning were reported by the New York City Poison Control Center, the Food and Drug Administration appropriately banned the importation and sale in the USA of the material, which is sold as an aphrodisiac called “Rockhard”, “Love Stone”, or “chan su”.4,7–9
• Venom is injected through bites or stings, while toxins are produced by the body and released externally.
• However, it is important to note that this toad is highly toxic and can pose a serious danger to humans and animals alike.
• The report highlights the similarity between toad venom poisoning and digitalis toxicity.
• It can cause a range of symptoms when ingested or exposed to the skin, including nausea, vomiting, irregular heart rhythm, seizures, and even death in severe cases.
• To minimize the risk of cane toads, it is essential to follow proper handling techniques.
• Since the beginning of October 2025, influenza seasonal activity has increased in the Western Pacific Region.

Colorado River toads are considered a species of concern in some areas due to habitat loss, pollution, and overcollection. Are Colorado River toads endangered? However, it is important to exercise caution and avoid handling these toads or their secretions. It’s crucial to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse related to these toxins.” Lastly, I consulted with a psychiatrist who has treated individuals for substance abuse related to Colorado River toads.

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While the efficacy of these treatments is still being debated, the use of toad toxins in medicine highlights the complex relationship between humans and amphibians. It is important to handle cane toads with caution and avoid any contact with their venom. TAMPA - Veterinarians are sounding the alarm for pet owners to watch out for toxic cane toads as the rainy season continues. Veterinarians are sounding the alarm for pet owners to watch out for toxic cane toads as the rainy season continues. Fortunately, most dogs with toad poisoning will only become mildly ill and will fully recover with quick treatment to rinse the toxin away as much as possible. Thankfully, most cases of toad poisoning in dogs aren't too severe, and your dog will only experience mild symptoms, although those symptoms can last for several hours.

Can Colorado River toads kill humans? Some people have been known to “milk” the toads for their secretions and then dry and smoke the resulting substance in order to experience hallucinogenic effects. Despite their toxicity, Colorado River toads have gained popularity in certain circles for their psychoactive properties.

It is also crucial to wash hands thoroughly after handling any objects or surfaces that may have come into contact with cane toads. In areas where cane toads are prevalent, individuals should also take precautions while gardening or engaging in outdoor activities. Additionally, keeping yards and gardens neat and well-maintained can discourage the attraction of cane toads, as they are often drawn to areas with abundant insects and other food sources. To reduce the chances of coming into contact with cane toads, individuals should take steps to discourage their presence in their surroundings.

There have also been limited reports of transmission from other infected animals to humans. It primarily spreads from infected birds to humans through close contact with birds or alcohol and blood pressure contaminated environments, such as in backyard poultry farm settings and at markets where birds are sold. The integration of RCCE approaches to promote vaccination against influenza is also recommended. Enhanced risk communication and community engagement approach support empowerment of individuals to make informed decisions, countering misinformation, and community-led protection strategies. Member States should consider to update and strengthen their risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) strategy integrating respiratory viruses.

The majority of poisonings are accidental and preventable. Poisoning is a significant problem in the United States and is the leading cause of unintentional death, surpassing motor vehicle crashes. This article describes common types of poisoning and how to treat them.

While cane toad poisoning is rare, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if ingestion occurs. If ingested by humans, the toxin can cause a range of symptoms, from nausea and vomiting to more severe effects such as seizures and death. In conclusion, cane toads are highly poisonous amphibians that secrete a potent toxin called bufotoxin. Additionally, pet owners should be cautious and prevent their pets from coming into contact with cane toads, as they too are susceptible to poisoning. The toxins secreted by these invasive species can cause severe symptoms when ingested, come into direct contact with the skin, or inhaled. Certain populations, such as children, pets, and individuals with underlying health conditions, may be more susceptible to the effects of cane toad toxins.