Eight Injured, Including Child in Critical Condition, by Chlorine Fumes at Italian Pool

A serious incident involving chlorine gas inhalation occurred at a sports club pool in Mentana, on the outskirts of Rome, leaving eight bathers intoxicated. Among those affected was a 5-year-old boy, who was transported to Sant'Andrea Hospital in Rome in critical condition (codice rosso). Four other individuals, aged between 10 and 15, also required medical treatment and were classified as code yellow.

Emergency services, including firefighters and carabinieri, arrived at the scene around 3:30 p.m. Firefighters detected a significant release of chlorine fumes, which are believed to have caused the reported illnesses. Approximately fifty people present at the facility were evacuated, and the sports club was temporarily closed pending an investigation.

The incident highlights the potential dangers associated with improperly managed chemical levels in public swimming facilities. The high concentration of chlorine fumes posed a significant risk, necessitating immediate evacuation and medical intervention for those affected, particularly the young child.