WHO: 500 Douma patients had symptoms consistent with toxic weapons exposure

U.N.aid agencies do not have access to most of the enclave of eastern Ghouta, including Douma, where the alleged attack occurred.

This image released early Sunday, April 8, 2018 by the Syrian Civil Defense White Helmets, shows a child receiving oxygen through respirators following an alleged poison gas attack in the rebel-held town of Douma, near Damascus, Syria. | AP 

GENEVA: The World Health Organisation condemned a suspected chemical weapons attack in Douma, Syria last weekend, in which it said an estimated 500 patients went to health facilities with "signs and symptoms consistent with exposure to toxic chemicals".

"WHO demands immediate unhindered access to the area to provide care to those affected, to assess the health impacts, and to deliver a comprehensive public health response," Peter Salama, WHO deputy director-general for emergency preparedness and response, said in a statement issued in Geneva.

U.N.aid agencies do not have access to most of the enclave of eastern Ghouta, including Douma, where the alleged attack occurred.

The Syrian government has denied responsibility.