7 workers in Chongqing hospitalized with lower limb mobility impairment suspected of collective poisoning.

Recently, in Chongqing, a paper coating factory, seven workers have experienced lower limb movement disorders, and after being sent to the hospital for examination, the doctors suspected collective poisoning. However, the company has not provided a clear statement regarding the treatment costs.

According to reports from Chongqing Network Broadcasting and Television Station, the factory where these workers are located is in the Puyu Street, Tongliang District. Mr. Jian, one of the workers, stated, “I have weakness in my lower limbs, and walking is very difficult.” Mr. Li, another worker, said, “My legs feel numb, and I have no strength.”

As per the workers’ accounts, there are 18 workers in one team, with 7 of them starting to display symptoms from mid-February this year, all starting from the lower limbs. Due to different positions, the severity varies among individuals. Mr. Li is the most severely affected, experiencing issues not only in the lower limbs but also in the upper limbs, along with memory loss symptoms.

In early March, the seven workers went to Chongqing Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment Hospital for treatment, and after examination, doctors suspected heavy metal or toxic organic solvents causing the poisoning. Due to damage to the nervous system, they will face months or even years of long-term treatment ahead, with some potentially experiencing lasting effects.

The workers indicated that up to now, each of them has incurred medical expenses ranging from ten to twenty thousand yuan, which they have paid out of pocket. They are now unable to afford the upcoming treatment costs. Still, the company has not provided a clear explanation regarding the costs incurred for treatment.

In response to this, the person in charge of the paper coating factory stated that the Tongliang District Levels One and Two Disease Control Centers and Health Commission of Chongqing have initiated an investigation. The staff has monitored and sampled the raw materials in the factory, and the company is awaiting the final results of the investigation. Only after identifying the cause can they decide on the compensation plan.

Regarding the issue of workers facing medical expenses, the responsible person mentioned that after discussing with his wife, he decided to link the company’s account with the hospitalized workers’ medical account so that the relevant treatment costs can be settled immediately.