Q COSTARICA — A woman died Saturday night in a hotel located in the Real Cariari sector of Heredia, after being poisoned by aluminum phosphide, a highly toxic type of pesticide.
In total, 17 patients were treated in hospital for respiratory and digestive symptoms. After being evaluated by medical personnel, stabilized, they were discharged.
As of the most recent update, the hospital has no patients under observation or hospitalized in connection with this event.
Aluminum phosphide is a toxic chemical compound used as a fumigant for pests in stored grains. Upon contact with moisture, it releases phosphine gas, a very potent insecticide.
The substance is commonly used to control subterranean pests. It can also be used to treat rodent burrows.
When exposed to water or moisture in the air, it reacts rapidly to release phosphine gas, a colorless gas with a characteristic odor of garlic or rotten fish.
According to the report, the victim was found without vital signs. Upon arriving at the scene, the Costa Rican Red Cross confirmed her death.
The Bomberos (Fire Department) identified the presence of hazardous materials that caused other people to also exhibit symptoms of poisoning. In total, eight patients were evaluated at the scene and subsequently transported in critical condition to San Vicente de Paúl Hospital.
Bomberos conducted a thorough inspection of the hotel facilities to ensure there was no risk to other occupants and to determine if the establishment could continue operating normally.