Several attendees of the ApeFest event in Hong Kong have reported experiencing eye pain, vision problems, and sunburnt skin. The event, which showcased the Bored Ape Yacht Club NFT collection, took place from November 3rd to 5th. These alarming incidents have caused concern among the community, with individuals seeking medical attention and sharing their experiences on X (formerly Twitter).
The Diagnosis and Speculation
One attendee revealed that they had been diagnosed with Photokeratitis, commonly known as “welder’s eye.” This condition is caused by prolonged and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Another individual attributed their discomfort to the UV radiation emitted by the stage lights. These revelations have led to speculation regarding the event’s lighting setup and whether it was the cause of these unfortunate injuries.
Firsthand Testimonies
A concerned attendee named @CryptoJune777 shared their harrowing experience, stating, “I woke up at 04:00 and couldn’t see anymore. Had so much pain and my whole skin is burned. Needed to go to the hospital.” The severity of their symptoms underscores the gravity of the situation and the necessity for further investigation.
Yuga Labs, the blockchain company behind the Bored Ape Yacht Club NFT project, has acknowledged the reports and expressed their commitment to addressing the issue. Emily Kitts, a spokesperson for Yuga Labs, stated, “We are actively reaching out and in touch with those affected to better understand the root cause.” The company is taking these incidents seriously to ensure the safety and well-being of their community.
Potential Causes and Precedent
These symptoms are not entirely unprecedented, as similar cases were reported in 2017 following a Hypebeast event at The Landmark in Hong Kong. Partygoers who attended that event also experienced sunburn and severe eye pain upon waking up. Investigation revealed that the venue had installed lighting primarily for disinfection purposes, leading to speculation that improper lighting may have played a role in both incidents. Notably, The Landmark venue was not part of the ApeFest event plan, suggesting that the two incidents are unrelated.
The Quest for Answers
As the affected individuals seek answers and support, it is crucial for a thorough investigation to be conducted. Identifying the root cause will not only provide insight into the specific circumstances surrounding the ApeFest event but also help prevent similar incidents in the future. The health and safety of event attendees should always be of utmost importance.
The ApeFest incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks involved in attending large-scale events. Organizers must prioritize the implementation of appropriate safety measures and conduct thorough safety checks, particularly when it comes to lighting systems. By learning from these unfortunate incidents, event organizers can strive to create safer environments for attendees, ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the experience without any compromising health consequences.
The reported eye pain and sunburnt skin experienced by attendees at the ApeFest event have raised serious concerns within the community. While Yuga Labs has taken the reports seriously and is actively investigating the issue, it is essential to uncover the root cause and address any potential safety lapses. By prioritizing attendee safety and implementing necessary precautions, event organizers can ensure that future gatherings are enjoyable and incident-free.
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