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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
World
Chloe Farand

Hundreds evacuated from Hamburg airport after unknown toxin spreads through air conditioning

Hundreds of passengers have been evacuated from Hamburg Airport after 50 people were injured by an unknown toxin believed to be spreading through the airport's air conditioning system. 

All flights were suspended during the evacuation but resumed shortly before 2pm. 

A corrosive substance is believed to have been discharged in an area where passenger luggage is scanned by security staff and travellers have been complaining about breathing problems, burning eyes and nausea. 

They were examined by firefighters at the airport to find out whether they had to go to hospital, German news agency dpa reported.

The cause of the incident and the nature of the toxin are not yet known but spokeswoman for the airport, Karen Stein, said: "We're working closely together with the authorities to find out more.

"We have cancelled all flights at least until 2pm, and most parts of the airport have been evacuated."

People evacuated from the airport had to wait outside the terminals in freezing temperatures and have now been allowed back in, a police spokeswoman said. 

Doctors were examining those injured by the unknown toxin in a specially designated area outside the airport.  

Some flights are believed to have been diverted to other airports following from the incident. 

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