Thirty-five Norwegian teenagers received hospital treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning after attending a traditional graduation celebration in Lørenskog. Medical officials confirmed the cases followed an indoor party where organizers used a gasoline-powered generator.
Hospital spokesperson Linda Ingier stated that blood tests revealed elevated carbon monoxide levels in all affected teenagers. "A reading of five requires hospitalization for teenagers," she explained. "Adults would need a level of ten for admission." Medical professionals suspect actual exposure levels were higher than measured readings indicated, since significant time had passed between exposure and testing.
Police estimate approximately 400 teenagers attended the Friday evening celebration, though exact numbers remain unconfirmed. The event was part of Norway's traditional "russefeiring" celebrations marking the end of secondary education.
Akershus University Hospital activated its emergency response protocol around 12:30 PM Saturday, deploying additional nurses, doctors, and administrative staff. The hospital maintained elevated readiness levels until 7:50 PM that evening after treating all affected patients.
Doctor Torkil Benterud, who treated several patients Saturday morning, reported approximately 100 teenagers sought medical attention across multiple facilities including Akershus University Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, and emergency clinics in Lørenskog, Lillestrøm, and Oslo.
Teenagers began alerting each other through social media about potential poisoning symptoms, according to medical staff. Most affected individuals reported leaving the party 30-60 minutes before its scheduled conclusion due to developing headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
Treatment involved oxygen therapy, paracetamol for pain relief, and fluid replacement. Medical professionals emphasized that while all cases were classified as mild poisoning, carbon monoxide exposure presents serious health risks. Severe poisoning can cause life-threatening oxygen deprivation to the brain and heart.
Norwegian graduation celebrations frequently involve large gatherings and temporary structures where improper ventilation creates carbon monoxide risks. This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns surrounding these traditional celebrations, particularly when organizers use fuel-powered equipment in enclosed spaces.
Hospital officials praised the coordinated response between multiple medical facilities and municipal health authorities. The efficient information sharing and resource allocation prevented more serious health outcomes despite the large number of affected individuals.
Medical professionals note that carbon monoxide poisoning incidents during Norwegian graduation season occur with concerning regularity. The colorless, odorless gas presents particular dangers in temporary party venues where safety standards may be overlooked during celebratory events.
All affected teenagers have been discharged from medical care, with none requiring ongoing treatment for severe symptoms. The incident serves as a seasonal reminder about the importance of proper ventilation when using fuel-burning equipment in enclosed spaces.