Eleven Romanian pilgrims on Mount Athos suffered food poisoning after consuming mushrooms they had gathered from the wilderness.
According to reports from Voria.gr, the pilgrims had been staying at the Skete of Saint Anna in recent days. Yesterday afternoon, they began their ascent to the summit of Mount Athos to worship at the Chapel of the Transfiguration of the Savior.
They spent the night outdoors, lighting a fire to keep warm and prepare a simple meal. Some of them gathered mushrooms from the mountain, assuming they were edible.
However, a few hours later, all of them began feeling unwell, with some experiencing severe discomfort. The group of pilgrims returned to Dafni, where they received first aid from doctors at the Health Center of Karyes. Seven of them were given IV fluids as their condition was more serious. They then left Mount Athos by sea taxi for Ouranoupoli.
Emergency services (EKAB) were immediately notified and picked up the pilgrims from the port of Ouranoupoli. Some were in a semi-conscious state and were taken to Polygyros Hospital.
Four of the Romanian pilgrims in more serious condition were transferred to Papageorgiou Hospital in Thessaloniki. However, reports indicate that none of their lives are in danger.
