In Oslo, Norway, over 20 people have been hospitalized after carbon monoxide poisoning. Local police accidentally discovered a bunker party with over 200 attendees.
Several partygoers emerged from the bunker and acted confused or asked for an ambulance. Fridtjof Heyerdahl from Oslo University Hospital reported that all the hospitalized partygoers have been improving and out of danger.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can result from exposure to burning fuels such as charcoal, wood, and gasoline in poorly ventilated areas such as a bunker or indoors. The fuels produce harmful gas that has no smell, color, or taste.
Symptoms may include confusion, hypoxia, nausea, dizziness, or even loss of consciousness. Carbon monoxide is most dangerous to people exposed in their sleep or is intoxicated. High levels of exposure may also lead to brain damage, heart damage, a miscarriage, or death.
Underground Bunker Party
Investigators of the underground rave party believe that carbon monoxide poisoning came from portable generators that powered the gear for the music. One attendee shared that the air quality inside the bunker was so poor that he frequently went outside for a breath of fresh air.
However, the police were already given a tip regarding the party before it began. The woman who called the Olso police was concerned about the possible spread of coronavirus during the party.
She said that the police responded by saying that they would 'see if there is a lot of noise, if necessary.' She said that they seemed the have no interest or intention of stopping the party from happening.
Read Also: CDC Issues Health Advisory on Carbon Monoxide Poisoning After Hurricane Laura
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning After Hurricane Laura
In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently issued a warning of possible carbon monoxide poisoning after Hurricane Laura wiped out power lines in Louisiana and Texas. Authorities have reminded the public to use alternate sources of power where there is good ventilation or outdoors.
The CDC's health advisory noted the importance of 'appropriate and prompt diagnostic testing and treatment' to avoid cases of carbon monoxide poisoning. Sources of carbon monoxide should be identified and mitigated as well to prevent cases.
Patients suspected of carbon monoxide poisoning should be checked if they have inhaled smoke, have been intoxicated, have an underlying condition, or for trauma. Local authorities should be notified of any cases to help prevent further cases of CO poisoning and deaths.
In Lake Charles, Louisiana, the local police have reported four deaths of carbon monoxide poising in a single household. Similar to the bunker party, the source of the gas was a generator. It was inside the garage with the door only partially open. The fifth member of their family remains hospitalized and is fighting for her life, shared authorities.
Chief Shawn Caldwell from the Lake Charles Police reminded residents to keep generators away from covered areas. 'Don't let a generator cost you your life,' he said.
Read Also: Gas Stoves are Making People Sicker and Exposing Children to a Higher Risk for Asthma, Study Claims
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