Gulf Coast Disaster, Health Care Issues - Monday, August 9, 2010 15:29 - 0 Comments

Oil Spill Cleanup Workers Reporting Illnesses

Since the oil spill in the Gulf began in April, there have been thousands of workers deployed to aid in cleanup efforts. At least 200 of these workers have been hospitalized as a result of exposure to the oil and dispersants. The symptoms the workers are experiencing are typical of those associated with chemical exposure and include headaches, nausea, gastro intestinal distress, respiratory problems, and the like. While these symptoms tend to subside once the exposure to the oil and dispersants ends, many of the workers and health officials worry about the long-term effects of exposure.

To date, there is little information on the long term effects of the dispersants, especially given the large quantities being pumped into and sprayed in the Gulf. Continue…