LEHIGH COUNTY, Pa. – Over fifty individuals were hospitalized on Friday afternoon due to a hazmat incident at a pharmaceutical packaging firm in southeastern Pennsylvania, according to the Upper Macungie Township Police Department. The incident occurred at Sharp Corporation on Keebler Way, when employees reported symptoms including nausea, headaches, and vomiting after detecting a chemical odor.
Emergency response teams, including fire, EMS, and police personnel, swiftly responded to the scene. Despite their prompt arrival, hazmat crews are still working to determine the cause of the workers’ ailments.
In response to the incident, Lehigh Valley Health Network admitted around 30 patients across two of its hospitals. Brian Downs, a spokesperson for the network, stated that several patients exhibited minor symptoms and are currently undergoing tests and monitoring. While some individuals reported headaches and hoarseness of voice, not all displayed visible symptoms.
St. Luke’s University Health Network also received 22 individuals from the incident, all of whom have been deemed stable and will be discharged, according to spokesperson Sam Kennedy.
The Sharp Corporation building has been declared safe, allowing patrons to return. However, Lieutenant Pete Nickischer of the Upper Macungie Township Police Department confirmed that the cause of the incident has yet to be determined.