More than 20 injured by carbon monoxide in Karthalle

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Photo: sport photo service / IMAGO

21 people between the ages of six and 44 suffered mild carbon monoxide poisoning during a visit to a karting hall in Miesitz, Thuringia.

That is what the police said.

17 of them had to be taken to hospitals after the incident on Saturday evening.

Those affected, including eight children between the ages of six and 13, complained of headaches and nausea, a spokeswoman said.

Occupational safety switched on

It is still unclear how the gas leaked out in the hall in the Saale-Orla district.

The fire brigade was on site, but could not explain the incident.

There may have been a defect in the suction system, said the police spokeswoman.

The investigations would continue, and the Office for Occupational Safety and Health should also be involved.

The hall is currently closed and sealed.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odorless and tasteless gas.

This makes it a particularly insidious danger: if it escapes, you cannot see or smell it – unlike smoke.

For this reason it is also referred to as a »silent killer«.

Carbon monoxide poisoning causes a massive lack of oxygen in the body.

Depending on the concentration, the consequences include headaches, tachycardia, nausea, apathy, shortness of breath and, in the worst case, death.

apr/dpa