A man, reported to be in his 40s, has died and six others have been hospitalised after suffering medical episodes at Dreamstate Sydney over the weekend.
Per The Sydney Morning Herald, NSW Police have launched an investigation after several punters who attended Dreamstate festival at Sydney Olympic Park on Saturday fell ill.
One man, reportedly in his 40s, died at the event at about 11.30pm. He is yet to be formally identified.
Six more people were also rushed to the hospital, with one remaining in critical condition.
In a statement to 9News, a NSW spokesperson said it’s “committed to working closely with musical festival organisers and other stakeholders to support a safe festival industry”.
“A range of harm reduction initiatives are in place at festivals, including support and health promotion workers, health messaging, free chilled water, misting fans, chill-out spaces and well-equipped medical services,” the spokesperson said.
The Dreamstate Sydney death comes days after NSW Health released an alert on multiple high-dose MDMA tablets circulating in the state.
On Tuesday, NSW Health said the high-dose tablets — with some found to contain a synthetic cathinone with stimulant effects — were detected by the NSW Government’s Drug Checking service at multiple music festivals across Sydney and the Central Coast throughout summer.
“We are concerned about the prolonged detection of these high-dose MDMA tablets and are urging the community to be aware and vigilant, particularly for those people attending major festivals over the next few weeks,” Dr Darren Roberts, the Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, said.
“The risk of serious harm is increased when MDMA is taken with other stimulants, including synthetic cathinones, amphetamines and if high amounts (including multiple doses) are consumed over a short period.
“Hot environments, such as at music festivals, also increase the risk of harm from MDMA. Taking a break from dancing, seeking shade and drinking water are important measures to reduce the risk of overheating.
“It’s also very important to remember that if you or a friend has taken drugs and feels unwell, you won’t get into trouble for seeking medical care. If you or a friend feels unwell, please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000).”
Image source: 9News & Instagram.
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