Pupils affected in Effingham ‘noxious gas exposure’
Approximately 15 children were treated by paramedics before being transported to various north Durban hospitals.
AT least 15 learners have been hospitalised after being exposed to a ‘noxious gas’ at a primary school in Effingham.
According to emergency personnel, the incident was initially reported as a gas leak.
Netcare 911 spokesperson, Shawn Herbst said only one classroom at the primary school was affected.
“The principal of the school had initiated the emergency response plan when ambulance services arrived on scene. The classroom of about 30 children were moved to the entrance of the school in a well-ventilated area. We treated around 15 learners who were in stable conditions who were exposed to a noxious gas. The affected learners, aged between 11 and 12 complained of itchy throats and shortness of breath. They were transported to various north Durban hospitals. It is unclear what the noxious substance was that caused the symptoms,” he said.
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Rescue Care paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson, said that the noxious gas was reportedly pepper spray but was unable to confirm what had caused the emergency.
“At this stage the exact substance inhaled is unknown however it is suspected to be pepper spray which was sprayed in a classroom. All the parents were notified by the school management and the affected area cleared,” he said.
Attempts to contact the school have been unsuccessful.
In July, more than 60 learners were taken to hospital after a gas leak shut down a school in uMlazi’s L Section.
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