Officials at TV Asahi have apologized after a 12-year-old member of all-girl idol singing group 3B Junior fell into a coma after inhaling helium to alter her voice during a program.

Network officials told a press conference Wednesday that the incident occurred during recording of the program "3B Junior Stardust Shoji" on Jan 28. The girl fell unconscious after inhaling helium as part of a game.

She is believed to have suffered an air embolism, losing consciousness as a result of air bubbles blocking the flow of blood to the brain.

Medical personnel said Thursday the girl has regained consciousness and has limited movement but cannot yet speak clearly.

TV Asahi officials said other members of the idol group -- who are all under 18 -- had also inhaled helium gas to change their voices, and that the container of helium gas had a sticker on it, saying "For adult use only."

The network said safety precautions were inadequate and apologized to the stricken girl, her family and all others involved in the incident.

© Japan Today