ORANGE, Mass. — More than a half-dozen Orange elementary school students were transported to local hospitals after they either ate or touched a spicy gum product brought in by a classmate, according to officials.
Superintendent of Schools Elizabeth Teahan-Zielinski said in a message to parents, one student offered the spicy gum product to other students during Tuesday’s recess at the Dexter Park Innovation School.
Teahan-Zielinski said the gum product, which was purchased online by the student, contained levels of pepper that caused digestive issues for the students who ingested it, including burning of the mouth and esophagus.
In addition, students who touched the spicy gum but did not ingest it suffered immediate skin reactions, including eye irritation if they rubbed their eyes after touching it, said Teahan-Zielinski.
The Orange Fire Rescue Emergency Medical Services Department said both of its ambulances, as well as additional ambulances from surrounding communities, transported a total of six Dexter Park students to Athol Hospital and Heywood Hospital in Gardner.
In addition, Orange Fire Rescue EMS said multiple other students were transported to area hospitals by their parents/guardians.
MCI Declared Dexter Park School Incident terminated 3:30pm Joint statement from Superintendent of Schools , Orange...
Posted by Orange Fire Rescue EMS on Tuesday, April 4, 2023
“Appropriate action was taken to ensure the safety of our students,” Teahan-Zielinski stated in her message. “The situation is still an active investigation with safety personnel as well as the school’s own investigation. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken upon the completion of the investigation.”
Teahan-Zielinski also asked parents and guardians to speak with their children about bringing candy to school or accepting such items from other students. Those items are not permitted as part of the school district’s wellness policy because it is difficult for young students to understand that items can often contain ingredients others are allergic to or are created to cause physical distress.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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