7 Children Hospitalized in Yerevan Due to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

On April 12 and 13, a total of 7 children from different families were hospitalized at the Muratsan Hospital Complex’s Toxicology and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. According to Marine Grigoryan, head of the clinic, the children’s health deteriorated due to carbon monoxide exposure, and after receiving appropriate medical assistance at other medical facilities, they were transferred to the university clinic.

Four children were poisoned from one family, two from another, and one from a different family. University specialists assessed the level of poisoning and prescribed hyperbaric oxygen therapy. As a result of the treatment, positive dynamics were observed, and the children were discharged from the university hospital.

The main reason for carbon monoxide poisoning is the inhalation of large quantities of the gas. Initial symptoms of poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and fainting, which can often be confused with food poisoning or flu. Severe poisoning can affect the nervous system, brain, and damage neurons in the cerebral cortex, leading to seizures, arrhythmias, or even cardiac arrest.

The primary condition for first aid at home is to quickly remove the affected person from that environment and transport them to a hospital. If the level of poisoning is very high, oxygen delivery in a pressurized chamber is indicated, which facilitates faster recovery.

It is essential to frequently ventilate the apartment, especially the kitchen, and to be cautious with gas stoves and safety devices.