UK: Two poisoned by nerve agent used on ex-Russian spy

Event

Police confirmed on Wednesday, July 4, that a man and woman in Amesbury (Wiltshire county) found unconscious on Saturday, June 30, were poisoned by the same nerve agent - Novichok - used against former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in March. Although the UK government has stated it suspects the Skripals were victims of a Russian attack, authorities have said there is no evidence to suggest the couple in this most recent incident were specifically targeted. Investigations are ongoing to determine what may have been the source of the contamination or whether it could be linked to the earlier nerve agent attack. The couple remain hospitalized in Amesbury, which is located a few miles from Salisbury, where the attack on the Skripals took place.

England's chief medical officer has reiterated that the risk to the general public remains low. As a precautionary measure, local authorities have cordoned off several areas in Amesbury and Salisbury, where the couple are believed to have visited before experiencing symptoms. Sites include: Amesbury Baptist Church, a Boots pharmacy in central Amesbury, another property in Amesbury, Queen Elizabeth Gardens, and a supported living facility in Salisbury. An increased security presence remains in affected areas while the investigation is ongoing, and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected. Out of an abundance of caution, Public Health England South West has advised anyone having visited these sites between 22:00 (local time) on June 29 and 18:30 on June 30 to wash the clothes they were wearing at the time using a regular washing machine and soap, wipe down personal items with cleansing wipes, or otherwise wash any other items that they may have had with them at the site (jewelry, accessories, etc.) with soap and warm water.  

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to adhere to all local guidance.