Deadly ‘choking game’ is sweeping schools and it’s incredibly worrying

A dangerous "choking game" is sweeping schools – despite a string of deaths linked to the trend.

The deadly craze, which involves people deliberately strangling themselves or each other, is being fuelled by teens uploading their acts to social media.

Also known as the "fainting game", the aim is to cut off oxygen to the brain and pass out – before video footage of the incident is posted online.

The shocking game, which has been played for several years and blamed for a string of deaths, has now surged in popularity again.

Last month, 11-year-old Carson Bodkins is believed to have died after playing the viral challenge at his home in Elizabeth, Colorado, US.

And, this week, a principal at a school in Brisbane, Australia, warned parents the craze had resurfaced there.

Chrissie Coogan, from Kelvin Grove State College, wrote that "tutorial-style" videos are available to millions of users on social media.

Queensland Health has issued a warning that taking part in the craze could lead to death, coma or long-term brain damage, MailOnline reported.

A spokesman said: "The risks associated with self-asphyxiation – including death, coma and long-term brain damage – are simply not worth taking."

At least nine youths are believed to have died in the UK as a result of the game since 2010.


Back in 2016, a 12-year-old boy from Birmingham became a high-profile victim of the trend.

The body of Karnel Haughton was found by his distraught mother when she returned home from shopping.

Parents have been urged to look for warning signs their children are taking part in the game.

Clues include bloodshot eyes, strange marks on the neck and severe headaches.

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