More than 270 people have fallen ill and 15 have died from carbon monoxide poisoning in Jilin Province, northeastern China, local authorities reported yesterday. The cause has been identified as a combination of emissions from household coal stoves and humid weather conditions.
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A woman suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning is being treated at a hospital in Yanbian, Jilin Province, yesterday. |
Among those affected, 32 have been hospitalized, with 8 cases reported as critical. Of the 15 fatalities, 7 individuals were found dead in their homes under unknown circumstances. This incident has prompted police to conduct door-to-door checks for safety.
According to experts, the unusual drop in atmospheric pressure in the area, combined with increased humidity and rainfall, has caused carbon monoxide emissions from coal stoves to remain concentrated near the ground rather than dispersing, leading to a dangerous buildup in confined spaces.
Local officials have informed residents about how to handle carbon monoxide poisoning and have advised against using coal stoves or burning coal before going to sleep. China is the world’s largest consumer of coal, primarily in rural areas for cooking and heating purposes.
My Linh
