Chlorine Leak at Paphos Hotel Hospitalizes 26, Including 14 Children

An incident at a hotel in Paphos resulted in 26 people being hospitalized due to chlorine vapor poisoning, including 14 children.

The incident occurred yesterday evening around 4:00 PM. During maintenance work, a loud pop was heard, followed by smoke. Preliminary reports indicate that a hotel employee, in an attempt to increase chlorine levels in the pools, mixed two different chemicals, causing a chemical reaction.

The chlorine fumes caused breathing difficulties for hotel guests, particularly in the children's pool. Initially, 8 victims were reported, but the number later rose to 26.

Ambulances transported 12 adults and 14 children to Paphos General Hospital. All reported breathing difficulties and skin irritation. After receiving appropriate treatment, 24 were discharged. Two children, aged 8 and 9, remain hospitalized.

The police have arrested two suspects. The investigation suggests that a 28-year-old worker and a 57-year-old supervisor, both responsible for pool chlorination at the hotel, were involved in the incident.

According to a fire department spokesperson, the worker poured calcium hypochlorite and chlorine into the pool's drainage channel, leading to a chemical reaction that released toxic fumes.

The suspects have been charged with hazardous and negligent actions resulting in bodily harm.