Dozens of children have been injured after a primary school in Germany was teargassed.
Miriam Makeba School in Berlin was evacuated and shut just after 9am today amid the mass incident.
A total of 34 pupils are suffering symptoms and are being treated by the emergency services at the scene on n Zinzendorfstrasse street.
Local media reported that tear gas had been sprayed in the hallway of the school building and that police have designated it as a ‘mass casualty incident’.
Several primary school students complained of shortness of breath and eye irritation as a result.
A spokesperson for the fire department said: ‘We cared for 34 children and provided outpatient care; none of the children required hospital care.’
Classes have since been cancelled and an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the incident.
Approximately 400 children were in the school at the time that the tear gas was released.
Police later confirmed that there is ‘no longer any danger,’ adding in a statement on X: ‘Shortly after 9am, our emergency services were alerted to the Miriam Makeba Elementary School in Moabit.
‘At least 10 children are reportedly complaining of eye and respiratory irritation.
‘They are currently being treated by emergency personnel. The building has been evacuated and ventilated. Currently, there is no longer any danger.
‘School operations are to be suspended. Investigations into the cause and possible perpetrators are ongoing.’
Is tear gas dangerous?
Tear gas can cause a range of injuries, from mild irritation to severe, long-lasting health problems.
Immediate effects include burning sensations in the eyes, nose, throat, and skin, along with coughing, shortness of breath, and temporary vision impairment.
More serious injuries, including blindness, glaucoma, and even death, can occur from prolonged exposure, or high concentrations.
Young children, particularly those with asthma or respiratory problems,are at higher risk of complications.
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