Two young children at a primary school in Liverpool, UK, have died under unexplained circumstances. Amidst various speculations, concerns have been raised about the dangerously high electromagnetic frequency (EMF) signals from a nearby 4G LTE mast. Could this be a contributing factor?
Tragic Deaths Raise Concerns About EMF Exposure
The recent deaths of two young children at a primary school in Liverpool, UK, following an outbreak of giardiasis infection, have sparked widespread concern and speculation. The deaths have been linked to potential health impacts from non-ionizing radiation (NIR) emitted by a recently installed 5G tower adjacent to the school. This incident raises urgent questions about the interaction between NIR and microbial behavior, particularly how this emerging technology might influence health risks by altering microbial growth.
The Invisible Danger: Electromagnetic Frequencies
On July 10, The Guardian reported the tragic deaths of two young children at Millstead Primary School, a special needs school in Liverpool. Initially, the outbreak of giardia, which causes diarrhea and stomach cramps, was suspected. However, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) stated it was unlikely that the deaths were linked to this outbreak.
Michelle Beard, the headteacher of Millstead Primary, expressed her condolences: “The entire Millstead school community is devastated to have learned of the sad recent passing of two of our younger children. We have sent our sincerest condolences to both of their families.” The cause of the deaths remains unknown.
A Concerning Discovery
Following the tragedy, radiation experts Glynn Hughes of EMF Protection Ltd and Eileen O’Connor, Charity Director for the EM Radiation Research Trust, conducted an investigation. Their findings were alarming. Glynn Hughes recorded a radio frequency reading of 1,554,932 µW/m² at the school fence, the highest he had seen in the UK, emanating from a nearby 4G LTE tower. These readings were dangerously high, especially in close proximity to children’s play areas.
While the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) sets a “safe” exposure limit of 4,500,000 μW/m², many experts argue that this limit is excessively high. The Bio Initiative Report Recommendation for ‘No Observable Effects’ is much lower, at just 3-6 μW/m².
A “Reckless Disregard For Life”
1,554,932 µW/m² at the school fence: Eileen O’Connor shared her experience of visiting the school’s neighborhood: “It was a shock recording the peak radiation radio frequency reading right outside the school playground … It took over 24 hours to recover from dehydration, dizzy spells, headaches, and my skin was burning after visiting those hot spots … What a reckless disregard for life and especially our children’s lives … I hope and pray that the world wakes up to this madness and finally takes action. I truly believe that this is one of the most important issues and threats to all life on the planet.”
Eileen has campaigned for over twenty years, urging successive UK governments to address mobile communications from a health and safety perspective. She has written to various authorities including the UKHSA and the UK Government, calling for an urgent investigation into the placement of the 4G-LTE phone mast next to Millstead School.
The Influence of NIR on Microbial Growth
Recent studies, including research on the protozoan Giardia lamblia, suggest that NIR, which includes the frequencies used by 5G technology, could influence microbial growth rates. This interaction is not just a scientific curiosity but a potential public health concern, especially in settings like schools where children are exposed to NIR sources such as cell towers and WiFi.
- Potential Health Implications for Children:
- Giardia lamblia causes giardiasis, typically including symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. Concerns are that NIR could exacerbate the virulence or proliferation of such pathogens, potentially leading to more severe health outcomes for infected individuals, particularly the immunocompromised or young children.
- Broader Implications of NIR on Health:
- The potential for NIR to affect microbial behavior extends beyond giardiasis. Various studies have explored how electromagnetic fields influence bacteria and fungi, with implications ranging from medical treatment resistance to changes in environmental microbial communities.
- Variable Bacterial Responses to NIR:
- Research indicates that bacteria respond variably to NIR exposure. Some strains show inhibited growth, while others may thrive under similar conditions, complicating efforts to control infections, particularly in hospital settings or environments where sterilization and cleanliness are critical.
- Fungal Growth and NIR:
- Fungi, like bacteria, also show diverse responses to NIR. For industries concerned with food safety, building maintenance, or health care, understanding these responses is crucial for managing mold and other fungal pathogens.
- Speculations on NIR and Complex Diseases like Lyme Disease:
- While direct connections between NIR and specific diseases like Lyme disease are still under investigation, the broader implication is that NIR might influence disease progression through its effects on coinfections or immune response.
The Impact of Electromagnetic Fields on Mold Toxin Production
In an insightful experiment conducted by a leading mold researcher in Switzerland, the relationship between electromagnetic fields (EMF) and mold toxin production was explored. The researcher utilized a Faraday cage—a simple yet effective barrier made from silver-coated cloth resembling a mosquito net—to shield mold cultures from ambient electromagnetic radiation. Under this protective barrier, the mold’s toxin production was significantly reduced, highlighting the potential impact of EMFs on environmental and indoor air quality.
Exploring the Effects of Microwave Treatment on Gluten Structure and Immunogenicity
How does microwave treatment of gluten affect its toxicity for celiac patients? A study on the effect of microwaves on the structure, conformation, functionality, and immunogenicity of gluten aimed to investigate how microwave treatment affects the toxicity of gluten for individuals with celiac disease (CD), a condition where the immune system adversely reacts to gluten. The findings of this study suggest that microwave treatment can alter the structure of gluten, potentially reducing its immunogenicity and providing new insights into food processing and safety for celiac patients.
Urgent Need for Comprehensive Research and Revised Guidelines
Given the potential for NIR to influence microbial growth and impact human health, there is an urgent need for more comprehensive research. This research should aim to clarify the conditions under which NIR affects microbes and assess the broader health implications of these effects.
- Updating Public Health Guidelines:
- As our understanding of the biological effects of NIR expands, it is crucial that health guidelines and safety standards are revisited and updated to reflect these findings. This is particularly important in the context of rapidly advancing wireless technology and the increasing prevalence of NIR sources.
This Is Not An Isolated Case
This event echoes similar stories across the globe. In 2019, a cell phone tower at an elementary school in California was shut down after eight children were diagnosed with cancer. The parents and the community demanded its removal after noticing a spike in cancer cases among the students. More recently, in Detroit, Michigan, a lawsuit was filed against T-Mobile to halt the construction of a 5G tower near Washington Elementary School due to health concerns.
Some countries are taking steps to reduce children’s exposure to EMFs. The Cyberspace Administration of China has proposed restrictions on mobile phone use for individuals under 18, recommending a maximum of two hours of smartphone use per day and implementing “minor mode” programs that restrict internet access for users under 18 from 10 pm to 6 am. The Russian Ministry of Health has set new rules banning Wi-Fi and smartphones for distance learning. Additionally, Russia, Australia, Finland, The Netherlands, Sweden, Spain, France, and Portugal are taking steps to ban cell phones in classrooms, but more needs to be done about masts.
The Urgent Need for Awareness
These personal accounts underscore a critical need for increased awareness and action regarding the dangers of EMFs. The public must be informed about the potential health risks posed by these frequencies, which include cancers, insomnia, headaches, fatigue, irritability, concentration problems, loss of immediate memory, emotional distress, depression tendency, anxiety/panic, dysesthesia, skin problems, cardiovascular symptoms, dyspnea, and pain in muscles and joints.
What Can Be Done?
- Immediate Investigation: Authorities must conduct thorough investigations into radiation levels near schools and other sensitive areas.
- Stricter Regulations: Governments need to enforce stricter regulations on the placement of cell towers, especially in close proximity to schools and residential areas.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: It’s crucial that we continue to educate the public about the potential dangers of EMFs and how to mitigate exposure.
- Support Research: Funding and supporting independent research on EMF exposure and its health impacts is essential.
- Community Action: Write to your MP and school leadership, alerting them to the dangers of cell towers in our communities.
The Urgent Need for Awareness
These personal accounts underscore a critical need for increased awareness and action regarding the dangers of EMFs. The public must be informed about the potential health risks posed by these frequencies, which include cancers, insomnia, headaches, fatigue, irritability, concentration problems, loss of immediate memory, emotional distress, depression tendency, anxiety/panic, dysesthesia, skin problems, cardiovascular symptoms, dyspnea, and pain in muscles and joints.
What Can Be Done?
- Immediate Investigation: Authorities must conduct thorough investigations into radiation levels near schools and other sensitive areas.
- Stricter Regulations: Governments need to enforce stricter regulations on the placement of cell towers, especially in close proximity to schools and residential areas.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: It’s crucial that we continue to educate the public about the potential dangers of EMFs and how to mitigate exposure.
- Support Research: Funding and supporting independent research on EMF exposure and its health impacts is essential.
- Community Action: Write to your MP and school leadership, alerting them to the dangers of cell towers in our communities.
Take Action Now
The recent tragedies highlight a reckless disregard for public health. It is time for a collective awakening to the potential dangers of electromagnetic frequencies. Let’s not wait for more tragic events to occur before we take decisive action. Our children’s health and future depend on it.
The World Council for Health joins the Radiation Research Trust in calling for an immediate and thorough investigation into the deaths of the children at Millstead Primary School, Liverpool.
References and Additional Links:
- Richard Vobes: Did Radiation Kill the Children? 19 July 2024 (14 mins)
- Wireless technologies, non-ionizing electromagnetic fields and children: Identifying and reducing health risks
- Countries taking steps to reduce smartphone use among children
- UNESCO calls for a ban on smartphones in schools
- Netherlands to ban phones in classrooms
- We looked at all the recent evidence on mobile phone bans in schools – this is what we found
Final Thoughts
As we continue to explore the impacts of electromagnetic fields on various biological processes, it is crucial to maintain a cautious and informed approach. The recent tragedies in Liverpool underscore the urgent need for comprehensive research, updated guidelines, and increased public awareness. By prioritizing health and safety alongside technological advancement, we can ensure a safer future for all.
About the Author
The World Council for Health (WCH) is a non-profit initiative for the people, informed and funded by the people. Its global coalition of health-focused initiatives and civil society groups seeks to broaden public health knowledge and sense-making through science and shared wisdom. They are dedicated to safeguarding human rights and free will while empowering people to take control of their health and wellbeing.
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