Vietnam hospital treats siblings for suspected gas poisoning during car trip

The siblings, aged seven and 11 months, were admitted to Ninh Binh Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital in Ninh Binh Province with symptoms including seizures, unconsciousness and muscle rigidity, the hospital said in a statement.

The family had been traveling in a closed vehicle from Hoa Lu Ward in Ninh Binh Province toward the former Ha Nam Province — now also part of Ninh Binh following a recent administrative merger — when both children began showing signs of poisoning after about an hour on the road.

The parents also experienced dizziness and headaches, the hospital said.

The children were first taken to Ha Nam General Hospital before being transferred to Ninh Binh Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital for further treatment.

Doctors said the children were diagnosed with suspected inhalation of exhaust fumes and aspiration pneumonia.

Both received oxygen, intravenous fluids and antibiotics, and have since recovered and been discharged.

The hospital warned of the risks of toxic gas buildup in enclosed vehicles, especially for young children.

It said poor ventilation can lead to dangerous concentrations of carbon monoxide and other harmful substances.

Doctors advised parents to avoid keeping children in parked or enclosed cars and to seek immediate medical help if symptoms such as seizures or difficulty breathing occur.