Patient With "Unusual Symptoms" Closes Down Shannon Emergency Room

Shannon Medical Center's emergency room was shut down Thursday evening due to a HAZMAT threat.

A patient who went into the Shannon Emergency a little after 8 p.m. Thursday evening with "unusual symptoms," created major concern. These symptoms prompted staff to close down and quarantine the eastern area of the hospital where the Emergency Room is located for safety precautions. Additionally, concerned staff called a Hazardous Materials Biological Safety Team from Goodfellow AFB to investigate. 

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The HAZMAT crew went into the affected area and investigated, and after about 30 minutes, an "all clear" judgment was made

Shannon spokeswoman Lyndy Stone said, "When there is a potential threat, our protocol is to isolate the threat."

After a thorough investigation, there is no threat of exposure, Stone said.

At this time, the patient's name is unknown; however, HAZMAT officials speaking over radio channels stated that the patient received a package filled with a powdery substance. After coming into contact with it, he started having unusual symptoms, which prompted him to go to Shannon ER.