DOUMA, SYRIA — Dozens of people were killed in suspected chemical gas attacks on the town of Douma near Damascus on Saturday.<br />According to the U.S.-based Syrian American Medical Society, at least 48 people have died, while the Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations said that 70 deaths have been confirmed, the BBC reports.<br /><br />The pro-opposition Ghouta Media Center said a helicopter dropped a barrel bomb containing Sarin gas. <br /><br />Rescue workers said hundreds of people were showing signs and symptoms consistent with exposure to an organophosphorus compound. <br /><br />One paramedic was quoted by the Guardian saying, "the attack was near bomb shelters and so it spread quickly in them. The gas was concentrated and in a place where people thought they were safe."<br /><br />The paramedic said many victims had expanded irises and loss of motor control, with a high number suffocating from the gas. <br />Rescue workers said many victims' bodies remain uncollected because of further shelling, lingering toxic gas odor and lack of protective gear. <br />Syrian state media has the denied chemical attacks, saying rebels in Douma were about to collapse and spreading false news.
