Mold, Sewage Contamination, and Carbon Monoxide Pose Threat to Hurricane Sandy Victims

According to ABC News, Hurricane Sandy victims may still face health risks although it has been over two weeks since the storm has passed.

One major threat is mold. An estimated ten to twenty percent of the population is allergic to mold. However, even those who are not allergic are still at risk because mold spores typically irritate airways causing respiratory symptoms, asthma, and headaches.

Another risk factor is sewage contamination. Floodwaters pose a health threat because they often include raw sewage. ABC News reportedly tested a sample from lower Manhattan following the hurricane and detected gasoline, e.coli, and coliform. Even after floodwater retracts, contaminated puddles and surfaces still remain.

Finally, carbon monoxide poisoning caused from back-up generators can cause great danger. Since the hurricane left millions without power, many turned to back-up generators and coal stoves to keep warm. However, exhaust can become trapped causing carbon monoxide poisoning if there is not proper ventilation within the home or building. Carbon monoxide is odorless, so individuals are unaware of exposure, and causes tissue damage from lack of oxygen which can result in death.

“After natural disasters occur, testing affected areas can be crucial to individual’s health and safety,” states Diane Miskowski, Business Development Manager at EMSL Analytical. “EMSL Analytical has developed a variety of testing methods to determine the presence mold, fecal or sewage contamination, and carbon monoxide at our locations throughout the Northeast.”

For more information on EMSL’s testing services, please contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675 ext 2528, visit www.EMSL.com, or email  info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is the nation’s leading testing laboratory with over 30 locations throughout the United States and Canada. We are a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in consumer product, environmental, industrial hygiene, indoor air quality, microbiology, radon, food, and materials testing services to professionals and the general public. Please visit our website for a complete listing of accreditations from leading organizations, as well as state and federal regulating bodies.



Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/post-superstorm-sandy-health-risks/t/story?id=17651636

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com