A ten-year-old girl in Huauchinango, Puebla, tested positive for fentanyl, but the state prosecutors clarified that the result was due to medications administered during her hospitalization for suspected food poisoning. The child, along with five other minors, was rushed to Hospital General de Huauchinango, where they were evaluated for potential food poisoning after consuming tamales. The prosecutors noted that the positive test for fentanyl was a consequence of over ten hours spent in the hospital, where she received clinical treatment for seizure management.

The incident raised significant public concern as it involved multiple children being hospitalized for what was initially suspected to be food poisoning. The investigation started on February 14, 2026, after the children were admitted, leading to inquiries regarding the tamales consumed and any potential negligence in food preparation. The state prosecutors announced they were pursuing an investigation into the situation under the charge of culpable injuries, which raises questions about food safety regulations in the area and their enforcement.

This case highlights the importance of transparency in the medical community and the need for stringent food safety checks, especially in regions like Puebla, where food-related illnesses have been an ongoing concern. The clarification surrounding the fentanyl results aims to alleviate fears in the community, but it also underscores the complexity of linking clinical treatment outcomes to criminal investigations and the necessity for careful communication from health authorities to avoid public panic.