Reporting Adverse Events in Children Following Exposure to THC and CBD Containing Products
April 24, 2024
Dear Colleague:
Since November 2022, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has received some reports of adverse events in children who consumed products containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD). Reported symptoms for these adverse events have included vomiting, hallucinations, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, altered mental status and anxiety; some hospitalizations have occurred.
In response to these reports, VDH has established a special surveillance system to better characterize the burden and impact of adverse events due to THC and CBD consumption on children in the Commonwealth. The surveillance is being conducted in accordance with authority outlined in the Virginia Regulations for Disease Reporting and Control, 12 VAC 5-90-80, Section H. We ask providers to immediately report to their local health department:
- Adverse events requiring hospitalization in children less than 18 years of age following exposure to a THC or CBD product; and
- Clusters of adverse events in children less than 18 years of age following exposure to a THC or CBD product.
Providers should report to VDH through the THC and CBD Adverse Events Reporting Portal, or to the local health department by the most rapid means available, preferably by telephone. After a hospitalization or cluster is reported, VDH staff will collect information about the illness(es), possible exposures, and laboratory results. Public health testing through the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) can be requested to support patient or product testing; however, advance approval through your local health department is required.
Thank you for your partnership and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Karen Shelton, MD
State Health Commissioner