Twenty-six people were transported to hospital late Wednesday evening following an ammonia gas leak at a commercial building in Sterling, Virginia.
At approximately 8:36 p.m. ET, the Loudoun County Fire Rescue responded to a 911 call reporting a leak in the 22400 block of Sous Vide Lane in Sterling.
The leak was later confirmed to be ammonia, with numerous people at the scene exposed to this dangerous health hazard.
Ammonia is a toxic, pungent-smelling gas or liquid used in fertilizers, cleaning products, and pharmaceuticals. It is highly corrosive to tissues upon contact and is essential for the nitrogen supply in plants and animals.
Exposure to high levels of ammonia in the air can be extremely harmful, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Symptoms may include irritation of the skin, eyes, throat, and lungs, leading to coughing and chemical burns. Prolonged or high-concentration exposure can result in severe lung damage and even death. Individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions may be particularly susceptible to the effects of ammonia.
Most people will detect a strong, noxious odor or experience irritation that signals ammonia exposure. However, prolonged exposure can diminish their ability to sense the chemical. This reduced sensitivity can increase the risk of harmful effects, as individuals may not recognize the ongoing danger.
The incident in Sterling led to 26 patients being taken to nearby hospitals. Among them, four individuals were reported to be experiencing "significant symptoms," indicating severe exposure.
Several other patients were evaluated on scene, with Loudoun County's Office of Emergency Management assisting those impacted.
Units from Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, all responded to handle the emergency.
The CDC recommends moving to fresh air immediately if exposed to ammonia. If the release is outdoors, go indoors, close windows, and turn off ventilation. If indoors, evacuate the building. For household ammonia spills, ventilate the area and leave until the gas clears.
Additionally, affected individuals should remove contaminated clothing, shower with lukewarm water and mild soap, and flush eyes with water for 10-15 minutes if needed.
The Loudoun County Fire Rescue said there will be a continued public safety presence in the area to monitor the situation and ensure there are no further risks to the community.
Newsweek has reached out to Loudoun County Fire Rescue for comment.
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