Poisoning incident in Steinfort: 13 people hospitalised after drinking disinfected water
engin akyurt, Unsplash
The municipality of Steinfort has issued an official statement following an alarming incident that occurred on 14 March at a local childcare centre (maison relais). A child reportedly poured liquid disinfectant into a jug of drinking water, after which 12 children and one carer drank the contaminated water. All were hospitalised as a precaution, but were released home the same evening - there was no threat to life.
According to the commune, all emergency protocols were immediately activated. The facility staff immediately called the emergency services and liaised with the Corps of Fire and Rescue Services (CGDIS). Additionally, a risk assessment was carried out in co-operation with experts from Brussels, based on the technical characterisation of the disinfectant used.
Although the condition of the victims was not seriously alarming, ambulance crews and an emergency doctor (SAMU) were called to the scene. The victims were medically examined at the hospital.
Parents of the children were personally informed and the director of the institution was on site supporting the families.
In parallel, the police have launched an investigation and the public prosecutor has been notified. An internal audit is also being conducted to establish the exact circumstances of the incident and to identify preventive measures for the future.
As the perpetrator of the incident was a minor, the authorities emphasised that information in the case was limited to the direct participants only, in accordance with child protection rules.
The incident raised concerns and prompted a discussion on safety and supervision in childcare facilities, where such incidents require clear coordination between educators, emergency services and parents.
