Yuga Labs confirms UV lights as probable cause of health issues at ApeFest

Post ApeFest, Yuga Labs has confirmed that UV lights were likely the cause of reported eye and skin issues among attendees.

At least 15 attendees of the Hong Kong-based event, held on November 4, started reporting vision loss, eye pain, and skin problems the following day.

On Sunday, November 5, Yuga Labs began to receive reports that some ApeFest attendees and staff experienced eye pain, vision issues, or skin irritation following the Saturday night community event. These reports were – and continue to be – deeply concerning to us. We immediately…

— Bored Ape Yacht Club (@BoredApeYC) November 9, 2023

In a November 9th tweet, Yuga Labs’ Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) account confirmed that “UV-A emitting lights installed in one corner of the event were likely the cause of the reported issues”. The conclusion was drawn after a joint investigation with Jack Morton Worldwide, the agency that organized ApeFest, who conducted on-site inspections, testing, and interviews with event contractors.

The World Health Organization states that UVA, a UV wavelength range, accounts for about 95% of the UV radiation that reaches Earth’s surface. This exposure can potentially increase the risk of eye problems, according to the United States National Eye Institute.

The type of UVA lights used at ApeFest was not disclosed by BAYC. However, they urged attendees with symptoms to seek medical help and inform medical professionals of their exposure to UVA lights.

Regrettably, the incident has overshadowed the experience of the ApeFest attendees. BAYC has expressed commitment to supporting the recovery of anyone affected.

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