A mass casualty response was launched after 19 cadets at a military-style youth academy near Washington, D.C., were hospitalized with symptoms linked to an unknown illness.
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The incident unfolded on Sunday, July 26, at the Capital Guardian Youth Challenge Academy in Laurel, Maryland.
A large emergency response was put in motion as officials worked to determine the cause.
Military Academy Hospitalizations Trigger Mass Casualty Response
Emergency crews responded to the academy after multiple cadets began feeling unwell shortly after eating lunch, according to local reports.
One cadet's mother told FOX 5 that blood tests performed at a hospital showed her son had elevated carbon monoxide levels.
"I'm just more concerned that whatever it is, it's checked. I want to make sure not just for my child, but for all the kids on campus," the mother said.
"It's a bit overwhelming because when you send your child away you expect them to achieve what you've sent them away from. It was very alarming and scary."
She said her son developed symptoms several hours after other cadets had already been taken for treatment. The symptoms included dizziness, headaches and nausea.
Officials Continue Investigation Into Illness
Investigators from the Anne Arundel County Fire Department searched the campus for carbon monoxide but found no elevated levels of the gas.
Authorities have not identified the cause of the illnesses. Although officials have said investigators are considering whether food may have played a role.
"The health, safety, and well-being of our candidates and staff remain our highest priority," a statement read. "We will continue to cooperate fully with responding agencies and will provide additional information as it becomes available."
"At this time, it would be inappropriate to speculate on the cause of the incident while the investigation remains active."
According to FOX 5, medical personnel evaluated 15 additional people on campus on Monday. This included nine who had been involved in Sunday's incident.
Nine individuals declined further treatment, while six others were transported to local medical facilities for additional evaluation.
Officials said none of those evaluated were experiencing "acute or life-threatening conditions."
The Capital Guardian Youth Challenge Academy serves as an alternative education program for high school dropouts and teenagers who struggle in traditional school settings.
