A four-year-old boy is in critical condition at the University General Hospital of Heraklion in Crete after accidentally ingesting petroleum fuel. The child was immediately intubated and admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where doctors are fighting to stabilize his condition.

The incident occurred when the boy consumed fuel from a container found at home, apparently unaware of its contents. Following the ingestion, his parents rushed him to the nearest health facility. Emergency services (EKAV) were then contacted and transported the child to the Pediatric ICU at Heraklion’s main university hospital (PAGNI).

According to hospital director Giorgos Bea, who spoke to Greek broadcaster ERT, the boy arrived shortly after 10 p.m. on Thursday suffering from severe respiratory distress. His parents informed medical staff that he had swallowed petroleum.

Due to worsening respiratory function and symptoms of acute poisoning, doctors made the urgent decision to intubate the child. His condition remains critical but stable, with the coming 24 hours deemed crucial by the medical team.

Healthcare experts are using the case to highlight the importance of safely storing hazardous substances such as fuels, cleaning agents, and medications well out of reach of children. Ingesting petroleum can lead to serious internal injuries, including lung damage, chemical burns, and the risk of aspiration.