Brisbane childcare centre kids exposed to "unknown substance" in lunch

"It's a good centre," one dad said as he picked his child up. "We've been here for over a year and there have been no problems."

Several children at a Queensland childcare centre were assessed by paramedics on Thursday after they were exposed to an “unknown substance” during their lunch.

Ambulances were called to the Milestones Early Learning Centre at Keperra in Brisbane about 12.30pm to reports more than 10 young children were suffering a range of reactions after their lunch.

The Courier Mail reports the centre gave a letter to parents on Thursday afternoon saying all the affected children had been exposed to the substance and were having “minor reactions”.

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“These have included redness to face and body, swelling to lips and face, irritation/agitation,” the letter read.

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Milestones Early Learning Centre at Keperra. Picture: Brendan O'Malley

"Please make arrangements to pick up your child"

The letter was given out shortly after a 2pm text message to all parents asking them to pick their children up.

“Dear families, please make arrangements to pick up your child as soon as possible,” the text message read.

“Several children have presented with an unknown skin rash.

“Medical advice is being strictly followed including advice to families to pick up children.”

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Parents come to collect children from Milestones Early Learning Centre at Keperra. Picture: Liam Kidston

"We've been here for over a year and there have been no problems"

A Queensland Ambulance Service spokesperson told the Mail none of the children had to be taken to hospital by ambulance, and all were in a stable condition.

One young mother confirmed with the Mail some of the children had experienced rashes, but described it as “minor” and said she did not know what caused the problem.

Another dad said his boy was fine because he hadn’t eaten lunch.

“It’s a good centre,” he told the Mail.

“We’ve been here for over a year and there have been no problems.”

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A Qld Health worker at Milestones Early Learning Centre, Keperra. Picture: Liam Kidston

Childcare Centre to remain in "close contact" with families

A spokesperson for Milestones Early Learning Keperra said: “All safety policies and medical advice have been strictly followed, and the cause of the rash is being investigated thoroughly.

“The Department of Health have advised that the centre is approved to reopen.

“We are advised by Queensland Ambulance Service and impacted families that the majority of children’s rash symptoms disappeared within a short period of time.

“Notwithstanding that, we will remain in close contact with families overnight and parents who observe any symptoms should follow the current advice of the medical authorities and either present to hospital or call triple-0.

“We are committed to upholding the safety and wellbeing of all children in our care and will provide updates to families as and when available.”

Originally published as Brisbane childcare centre kids exposed to "unknown substance" in lunch