Authorities are investigating a mass bout of sickness among dozens of children who reportedly consumed a chemical “campfire novelty product” they were told were lollies at a Queensland primary school.

About 25 children at a Deception Bay North state school, north of Brisbane, were being treated on Monday for nausea after swallowing an unknown substance.

Paramedics were called to the school about 2.20pm after children “reportedly ingested a substance and experienced nausea” and burning in the throat, a Queensland ambulance service spokeswoman said.

The ambulance spokeswoman said it was yet to be confirmed how many children would be transported for treatment in hospital.

Police were on their way to the scene about 3.30pm but a police spokesman was unable to confirm details of what had occurred.

The Seven network reported that the students were believed to have ingested Mystical Fire, a “campfire novelty product” containing copper sulphate and copper chloride, which adds rainbow colours to flames.

The network said a child as young as seven had brought the substance to school and told friends it was “popping candy or sherbert”.

Neither Queensland ambulance service nor police could confirm whether “candy” was involved.

An education department spokesman said: “The principal is investigating the cause of the incident and if necessary, will take appropriate disciplinary action in line with the school’s responsible behaviour plan.”

