Loyola Medicine Warns After TikTok Trend Leaves Boy Burned by Needoh Cube
In a troubling incident, a 9-year-old boy in Illinois suffered serious burns after attempting a viral TikTok trend involving a sensory toy known as the Needoh Cube. The boy, Caleb Chabolla, put the cube in the microwave, leading to an explosion that burned his face. His mother, Whitney Grubb, recounted his painful experience, describing how her son was left distressed, crying, and suffering from injuries.
Incident Details
On realizing the danger, Grubb noted that the gel inside the Needoh Cube became excessively hot, causing it to stick to her son’s skin. The right side of Caleb’s face sustained severe burns. This painful ordeal came after Caleb had learned about the microwave trick from a friend, rather than from social media.
TikTok Trend Highlights Risks
Caleb was unaware of the trend’s risks, which have become increasingly notable. He mentioned, “It’s like a stress toy. I didn’t know it was a trend on TikTok.” This unfortunate result highlights concerns over the potential dangers of following online challenges without fully understanding the consequences.
Loyola Medicine’s Warning
Loyola Medicine in Illinois reported that Caleb is the fourth patient this year to suffer injuries linked to the Needoh Cube. Burn Outreach Coordinator Kelly McElligott emphasized the frequency of injuries resulting from TikTok challenges, which often showcase the fun aspects while ignoring potentially harmful outcomes.
Advice for Parents and Youth
In light of this incident, Grubb shared her concerns urging parents and children to think critically before attempting trends they see online. “Just think before you act,” advised Caleb, reflecting on his painful experience. Both he and his mother are relieved about his recovery and encourage others to be cautious with similar trends.
Health Implications
Despite the severity of his burns, Loyola Medicine assured that Caleb’s vision remains unharmed. As they emphasize safety during National Burn Awareness Week, the hospital aims to spread awareness regarding the risks associated with viral trends and the importance of adult supervision.
While Caleb is eager to return to school, he plans to caution his friends against experimenting with any unverified online trends. The message is clear: engaging without understanding can lead to serious consequences.
