Teacher concerned over pesticide exposure at Alajuela school; Red Cross assists 25

A teacher at the Tobías Guzmán Brenes School in Alajuela has voiced serious concerns about the potential long-term health effects on students exposed to the pesticide Rimpirifos 5GR. The teacher noted that for over a week, students have been reporting symptoms possibly linked to agrochemical exposure.

The Red Cross has provided assistance to 25 individuals at the school who exhibited these symptoms. Despite the ongoing situation, health authorities have yet to issue clear directives or guidance on how the school community should proceed, leaving educators and parents anxious.

While not seeking to cause alarm, the teacher emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting the need for immediate action from relevant authorities. The school remains open, but the lingering presence of the pesticide and the lack of official guidance create an environment of uncertainty and worry for students and staff.

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I am concerned that schoolchildren may experience health consequences from being apparently exposed to the agrochemical Rimpirifos 5GR. I point out that we are not seeking to cause alarm, but we do request that the authorities act with urgency.