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Source: https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/feed

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<title>Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Can be Deadly</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2023/01/30/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-can-be-deadly/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2023/01/30/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-can-be-deadly/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ogf3]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Jan 2023 13:02:15 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[National Center for Environmental Health]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6937</guid>
<description><![CDATA[It was the middle of winter, and a major snowstorm swept across several cities in the United States.* In Judy’s town, the power went out. Judy was relieved that her household would still have electricity from a portable generator that she bought the week before. She set up the generator in her garage to protect it from the snow, but just a couple hours later, she started to feel dizzy, weak, and nauseous. “It must just be the flu,” she thought. “It’s winter, and a lot of my friends have gotten sick lately.” Judy continued with her normal activities, thinking]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_6947" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6947" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6947" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning-300x169.jpg" alt="A graphic that says, “Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning. Can’t be seen. Can’t be smelled. Can’t be heard. Can be stopped.”" width="400" height="225" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning-768x432.jpg 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6947" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-can-be-deadly/">View larger image and text description</a></figcaption></figure>
It was the middle of winter, and a major snowstorm swept across several cities in the United States.* In Judy’s town, the power went out.
Judy was relieved that her household would still have electricity from a portable generator that she bought the week before. She set up the generator in her garage to protect it from the snow, but just a couple hours later, she started to feel dizzy, weak, and nauseous.
“It must just be the flu,” she thought. “It’s winter, and a lot of my friends have gotten sick lately.”
Judy continued with her normal activities, thinking everything was fine, but her symptoms became more serious. By the time her husband arrived home, he found her unconscious and rushed her to the emergency room.
At first, the doctor also thought Judy was experiencing the flu. But when Judy’s husband explained that he had found Judy near the garage with the generator, the doctor realized what had happened and treated Judy quickly. When she recovered, the doctor explained that she had experienced carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, not the flu. Without urgent medical care, the situation could have been deadly.
“We should never use a portable generator indoors, including in an attached garage,” the doctor explained. “Keep your generator outdoors at least 20 feet away from your home and your neighbor’s home. Always make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.”
Although this is a fictional scenario, situations like Judy’s are common. Every year in the United States, at least 420 people die and more than 100,000 people visit the emergency department from accidental CO poisoning.
CO poisoning can happen anytime, but it often occurs when people use portable generators during <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/carbonmonoxide.html">power outages</a> or when they <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/duringstorm/indoorsafety.html">heat their homes</a> in unsafe ways. This winter, take some time to learn how you can stay safe from CO poisoning.
*Note: This vignette is a fictional account showing the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. 
<h2>What is CO poisoning? </h2>
<figure id="attachment_6940" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6940" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6940" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/326669_Vazquez_Symptoms-of-CO-poisoning-1200x675-1-300x169.jpg" alt="Possible Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning" width="400" height="225" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/326669_Vazquez_Symptoms-of-CO-poisoning-1200x675-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/326669_Vazquez_Symptoms-of-CO-poisoning-1200x675-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/326669_Vazquez_Symptoms-of-CO-poisoning-1200x675-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/326669_Vazquez_Symptoms-of-CO-poisoning-1200x675-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6940" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-can-be-deadly/#symptoms">View larger image and text description</a></figcaption></figure>
CO is an odorless, colorless gas that is dangerous to humans and pets. Burning fuel in cars, generators, stoves, grills, lanterns, fireplaces, or furnaces produces CO, which can build up in enclosed spaces. Anyone, including your pets, can be at risk for CO poisoning, and CO poisoning can occur anytime.
Breathing in too much CO can cause you to pass out or can even be life-threatening. Other symptoms of CO poisoning include
<ul>
<li>Headache</li>
<li>Dizziness</li>
<li>Weakness</li>
<li>Upset stomach</li>
<li>Vomiting</li>
<li>Chest pain</li>
<li>Confusion</li>
</ul>
Remember—many people mistake these symptoms for the flu. People who are sleeping or have been drinking alcohol may not even notice symptoms. It’s important to stay alert, know the symptoms of CO poisoning, and take <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/copoisoning/index.html">precautions against CO exposure</a>. If you suspect you have CO poisoning, go outdoors immediately and call 911.
<h2>How do I use a CO detector? </h2>
Keeping a working CO detector in your home is one of the most important ways to prevent CO poisoning. CO detectors sound an alarm to alert you of danger when CO levels are high.
Keep the following tips in mind:
<ul>
<li>Use battery-powered or battery backup CO detectors, which work even if the power goes out.</li>
<li>Put CO detectors near sleeping areas where they can wake you up if needed.</li>
<li>Check or replace your CO detector’s battery regularly. Daylight savings is a great reminder to do this. You can change your batteries each spring and fall when you adjust your clocks.</li>
<li>Replace your CO detector based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.</li>
</ul>
If your CO detector sounds an alarm, leave your house immediately and call 911.
<h2>What else can I do to prevent CO poisoning? </h2>
There are other steps you can take to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/co/guidelines.htm">prevent CO poisoning</a>. If the power goes out and you need to use a portable generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Use generators at least 20 feet away from any windows, doors, or vents.
<figure id="attachment_6946" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6946" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6946" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning5-300x169.jpg" alt="Danger! Using a generator indoors can kill you in minutes." width="400" height="225" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning5-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning5-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning5-768x432.jpg 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/01/21_325032-A-Vazquez_CarbonMonoxidePoisoning5.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6946" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-can-be-deadly/#danger">View larger image and text description</a></figcaption></figure>
The following tips can help you prevent CO poisoning in your home:
<ul>
<li>Vent all gas appliances, and make sure vents aren’t blocked by debris.</li>
<li>Don’t use ovens or gas ranges to heat your home.</li>
<li>Never use generators, charcoal grills, camp stoves, or flameless chemical heaters indoors, even if windows are open.</li>
<li>Have experts service gas appliances that are giving off unusual odors.</li>
<li>Have a qualified technician service your heating system, water heater, and any gas, oil, or coal burning appliances every year.</li>
<li>Only buy gas equipment that has the seal of a national testing agency, such as Underwriters’ Laboratories.</li>
</ul>
The following tips can help you prevent CO poisoning in your car:
<ul>
<li>Have a mechanic check your car’s exhaust system every year.</li>
<li>Make sure snow isn’t blocking your car’s exhaust pipe.</li>
<li>Never leave vehicle motors running in your garage, even if the garage door is open.</li>
<li>If driving a vehicle with a tailgate, open vents and windows when you open the tailgate to make sure air is moving through.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Additional Resources </h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/dotw/carbonmonoxide/index.html">Quiz – How much do you know about carbon monoxide?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/co/factsheets.htm">Fact sheets on CO poisoning, generator safety, and furnace safety (available in 8 languages)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/co/psa.htm">Carbon monoxide public service announcements</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/co/faqs.htm">Frequently asked questions about CO poisoning</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/co/boating.htm">Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning on your boat</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>Tweets </h2>
Tweet this: Carbon monoxide (CO) can be deadly. Install a working CO detector, vent all gas appliances, and use generators outdoors and at least 20 feet away from any door, window, or vent. Read the #CDCEHblog for more tips to prevent #COpoisoning: <a href="https://bit.ly/3YcbUIJ">https://bit.ly/3YcbUIJ</a>
Tweet this: #DYK? At least 420 people die and more than 100,000 people visit the emergency department from accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning every year in the United States. Learn how to stay safe. Read the latest #CDCEHblog: <a href="https://bit.ly/3YcbUIJ">https://bit.ly/3YcbUIJ</a>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2023/01/30/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-can-be-deadly/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
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<item>
<title>Stay Safe in Winter Weather</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/12/23/stay-safe-in-winter-weather/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/12/23/stay-safe-in-winter-weather/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ogf3]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Dec 2022 14:06:14 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[National Center for Environmental Health]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6886</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Note: The below vignette is a fictional account showing possible health risks from exposure to cold weather. Matthew is outside on a cold, winter day shoveling snow out of his driveway. He starts to shiver and feel drowsy, but he decides to keep working until he finishes. When his neighbor Anna passes by, she notices something is wrong. Matthew seems confused and doesn’t recognize her. He tries to say something, but his speech is slurred. His hands fumble as he grips the shovel. Anna recognizes that these could be signs of hypothermia, a medical emergency. Anna acts quickly, bringing Matthew]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Note: The below vignette is a fictional account showing possible health risks from exposure to cold weather.
Matthew is outside on a cold, winter day shoveling snow out of his driveway. He starts to shiver and feel drowsy, but he decides to keep working until he finishes.
When his neighbor Anna passes by, she notices something is wrong. Matthew seems confused and doesn’t recognize her. He tries to say something, but his speech is slurred. His hands fumble as he grips the shovel. Anna recognizes that these could be signs of hypothermia, a medical emergency.
Anna acts quickly, bringing Matthew inside a heated home and covering him with dry blankets. She calls 911 and warms a cup of hot water for him while they wait for help.
Across the street, a child named Sarah is playing outside. Sarah is building a snowman without wearing gloves and hasn’t noticed that her fingers have become numb. When her father comes outside, he sees Sarah’s fingers have turned white—a sign of frostbite.
Sarah’s father brings Sarah inside the house and places her hands in a lukewarm bowl of water. He also instructs Sarah not to rub or massage her fingers, which could cause more damage.
In these scenarios, knowledge of cold weather safety saved Matthew and Sarah from dangerous situations. As the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/index.html">winter season</a> begins, it’s important to know how to prevent and treat <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/staysafe/hypothermia.html">hypothermia and frostbite</a>.
<h2>Prepare Ahead and Help Others</h2>
One of the best ways to stay safe in cold weather is to prepare ahead of time. Avoid going outside in extremely cold weather for long periods of time. If you must go outside, dress <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/duringstorm/indoorsafety.html#Outdoors">warmly</a> with a hat, scarf, mittens or gloves, water-resistant coat and boots, dry socks, and several layers of clothing. Stay dry—wet clothing chills the body quickly.
It’s important to also watch out for the health and safety of others, including older adults and babies, who are at high risk when exposed to cold temperatures. People often don’t realize they have hypothermia or frostbite. If you notice someone with symptoms of these conditions, get immediate medical help.
<h2>Hypothermia</h2>
<figure id="attachment_6882" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6882" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6882 size-medium" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-hypothermia-300x169.jpg" alt="Signs and Symptoms of Hypothermia" width="300" height="169" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-hypothermia-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-hypothermia-768x432.jpg 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-hypothermia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6882" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/stay-safe-in-winter-weather/#hypothermia">View larger image and text description</a></figcaption></figure>
When someone loses body heat faster than they produce it, they could experience hypothermia. Hypothermia affects the brain’s ability to function, making it difficult to think and act normally.
Signs of hypothermia include shivering, tiredness, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Babies experiencing hypothermia could experience bright red skin*, cold skin, and low energy. In severe cases, hypothermia could lead to death.
Know how to help someone experiencing hypothermia:
<ul>
<li>Seek immediate medical attention. Hypothermia is a medical emergency! If someone has a body temperature below 95°F, call 911 or bring the person to the nearest hospital. If you are not able to get medical help right away, try to warm the person up.</li>
<li>Warm the person. If possible, move the person into a heated building while you wait for help. Focus on warming the person’s chest, neck, head, and groin.</li>
<li>Replace wet clothing with dry layers. Remove wet clothing, which can make hypothermia worse. Cover the person with dry clothing, towels, sheets, or an electric blanket.</li>
<li>Provide the person with warm water. Warm, non-alcoholic beverages can raise the person’s body temperature if they can safely drink. If the person is unconscious, do NOT give them fluids.</li>
<li>Perform CPR if necessary. Severe cases of hypothermia could lead to unconsciousness, stopped breathing, and loss of a pulse. If the person shows these symptoms, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/cpr.htm">perform CPR</a> until the person becomes responsive or medical help arrives.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Frostbite</h2>
<figure id="attachment_6883" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6883" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6883 size-medium" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-frostbite-300x169.jpg" alt="Signs and Symptoms of Frostbite" width="300" height="169" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-frostbite-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-frostbite.jpg 680w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6883" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/stay-safe-in-winter-weather/#frostbite">View larger image and text description</a></figcaption></figure>
Exposure to cold weather can also cause frostbite, an injury that can permanently damage the body. The nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes are especially vulnerable to frostbite.
Early symptoms of frostbite include skin redness or pain. As frostbite progresses, the affected skin may become white or grayish in color*, unusually firm or waxy, and numb. In severe cases, body parts affected by frostbite may need to be removed.
Know how to help someone experiencing frostbite:
<ul>
<li>Get urgent medical care. Call 911 or bring the person experiencing frostbite to the nearest hospital. Also check the person for signs of hypothermia, which could be life-threatening.</li>
<li>Warm the affected area. Move the person into a warm shelter if possible. Gently warm the affected area using body heat or warm (not hot) water.</li>
<li>DON’T put pressure on the affected area. Do not rub or massage the frostbitten area. Avoid walking on feet or toes that show signs of frostbite. Applying pressure could increase damage.</li>
<li>Stay at a safe distance from heat sources. Frostbitten areas burn easily, so don’t let the person get too close to heating pads, heat lamps, stoves, fireplaces, or radiators.</li>
</ul>
*Note: Skin color changes may be less apparent in people with darker skin tones. 
<h2>Additional Resources </h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/beforestorm/preparehome.html">Preparing for a winter storm</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/winterweather/index.html">Stay safe and healthy in winter</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/cpr/documents/BeReady_Winter.pdf">Infographic: Be ready for winter weather</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/aging/emergency-preparedness/older-adults-extreme-cold/index.html">Older adults and extreme cold</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/cpr/readywrigley/documents/13_244218_ready_wrigley_winter_weather_508.pdf">Children’s activity book: Ready Wrigley Prepares for Winter Weather</a></li>
<li><a href="https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/travel-to-cold-climates">Cold weather and traveler’s health</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>Tweets</h2>
<figure id="attachment_6901" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6901" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6901 size-medium" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-spot-frostbite-hypothermia-300x150.png" alt="Spot Frostbite and Hypothermia" width="300" height="150" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-spot-frostbite-hypothermia-300x150.png 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-spot-frostbite-hypothermia-1024x512.png 1024w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-spot-frostbite-hypothermia-768x384.png 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-spot-frostbite-hypothermia.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6901" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/stay-safe-in-winter-weather/">View larger image and text description</a></figcaption></figure>
Tweet this: Can you recognize signs of #frostbite and #hypothermia? One of the best ways to prepare for #WinterWeather is to be informed! Learn more about these conditions and how to treat them by reading @CDCgov’s latest #CDCEHblog: <a href="https://bit.ly/3HZ6IDg">https://bit.ly/3HZ6IDg</a>
<hr class="cb" />
<figure id="attachment_6902" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6902" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6902 size-medium" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-treating-hypothermia-frostbite-300x169.png" alt="Treating Hypothermia and Frostbite" width="300" height="169" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-treating-hypothermia-frostbite-300x169.png 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-treating-hypothermia-frostbite-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-treating-hypothermia-frostbite-768x432.png 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/winter-weather-treating-hypothermia-frostbite.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6902" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/stay-safe-in-winter-weather/#treating">View larger image and text description</a></figcaption></figure>
Tweet this: Stay safe in cold weather! The #CDCEHblog has important information on protecting yourself and others from #frostbite and #hypothermia: <a href="https://bit.ly/3HZ6IDg">https://bit.ly/3HZ6IDg</a> #WinterWeather
 
 
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<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>Stories of Collaboration: ATSDR 2021 Annual Report</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/12/07/stories-of-collaboration-atsdr-2021-annual-report/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/12/07/stories-of-collaboration-atsdr-2021-annual-report/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[wkh9]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2022 21:17:29 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6856</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) serves as a science-based public health agency working to address community concerns about hazardous substances. For more than four decades, ATSDR has worked with communities across the United States to identify and reduce community exposures that might lead to harmful health effects. To date, we have taken action to keep people safe from environmental hazards in more than 6,000 communities. ATSDR recently released its 2021 annual report to show how we work with citizens and agencies at every level to respond to environmental concerns: A concerned student uses ATSDR’s petition process]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img loading="lazy" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/cheerful-mom-and-her-kids-volunteer-together-295x300.jpg" alt="The 2021 ATSDR Annual Report features stories of collaboration with national, state, local, and territorial partners." width="295" height="300" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-6860" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/cheerful-mom-and-her-kids-volunteer-together-295x300.jpg 295w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/cheerful-mom-and-her-kids-volunteer-together.jpg 355w" sizes="(max-width: 295px) 100vw, 295px" />
<a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/">The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)</a> serves as a science-based public health agency working to address community concerns about hazardous substances. For more than four decades, ATSDR has worked with communities across the United States to identify and reduce community exposures that might lead to harmful health effects. To date, we have taken action to keep people safe from environmental hazards in more than 6,000 communities. ATSDR recently released its <a href="http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/2021-annual-report">2021 annual report</a> to show how we work with citizens and agencies at every level to respond to environmental concerns:
<div style="padding-left: 10px">
A concerned student uses <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/2021-annual-report/listening-responding-taking-action/petition.html">ATSDR’s petition process</a> to request a public health investigation on an environmental health concern across two cities that share an odorous landfill. 

Penobscot Indian Nation (PIN) uses <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/2021-annual-report/listening-responding-taking-action/Penobscot-River.html">ATSDR’s health consultation on anadromous fish</a> in the nearby river to learn about possible health risks from eating fish contaminated with <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/">per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances</a> (PFAS).
 The <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/2021-annual-report/2021-year-in-review/ALS.html">National ALS Registry</a> expands its reach by linking persons with ALS (PALS) to scientists conducting research with the goal of slowing disease progression and getting closer to a cure.
 ATSDR and CDC’s <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/2021-annual-report/emergency-response-collaboration/Talladega.html">Increasing Community Access to Testing (ICATT) team</a> collaborate with national and state partners to increase the number of people getting tested or vaccinated for COVID-19 in a unique venue, <a href="https://www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/">Alabama’s historic Talladega Superspeedway</a>.
</div>
<figure id="attachment_6862" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6862" style="width: 910px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/Picture2.jpg" alt="" width="910" height="257" class="size-full wp-image-6862" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/Picture2.jpg 910w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/Picture2-300x85.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/Picture2-768x217.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 910px) 100vw, 910px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6862" class="wp-caption-text">Photo credit: Pixabay (image has been edited by the contractor)</figcaption></figure>

These stories, and more, are featured in <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/2021-annual-report/index.html">ATSDR’s 2021 Annual Report.</a> The report’s theme, Listening, Responding, & Taking Action, mirrors ATSDR’s commitment to engaging and involving communities as a core part of our work to protect communities from harmful health effects related to exposure to natural and man-made hazardous substances. We do this by responding to environmental health emergencies; investigating emerging environmental health threats; conducting research on the health impacts of hazardous waste sites; and building capabilities of and providing actionable guidance to state and local health partners.
<img loading="lazy" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/ATSDR-report.jpg" alt="A group of young adult people are resting after a climate change demonstration in the city. They are sitting in circle with some cardboard signs against global warming." width="345" height="180" class="alignright size-full wp-image-6865" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/ATSDR-report.jpg 345w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/12/ATSDR-report-300x157.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 345px) 100vw, 345px" />
Our 2021 annual report also features <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/2021-annual-report/whats-next.html">“what’s next”,</a> or how we are looking towards the future with emerging initiatives such as 
<ul type="disc">
<li>Strengthening ATSDR’s environmental justice and core health equity strategies through development of an <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/placeandhealth/eji/index.html">Environmental Justice Index</a> and <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pha-guidance/">ATSDR Public Health Assessment Guidance Manual Health Equity Module</a></li>
<li>Learning more about health effects of PFAS exposure from PFAS-contaminated water and other sources through the PFAS <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/activities/studies/multi-site.html">Multi-site Study and PFAS expanded environmental exposure investigation</a></li>
<li>Advancing ATSDR’s data modernization strategy</li>
</ul>
I invite you to take the time to learn more about our achievements in this <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/2021-annual-report/index.html">ATSDR 2021 annual report</a>. ATSDR is, and will always be, committed to protecting the health of the American public.
<hr />
Facebook this: Listening, Responding, & Taking Action mirrors ATSDR’s commitment to protect the health of the public. #ATSDR works to strengthen public health responses. Read more about our achievements in the new 2021 Annual Report: <a href="https://bit.ly/3UB7EA9">https://bit.ly/3UB7EA9</a>. 
<hr />
Tweet this: #ATSDR is excited to present our 2021 Annual Report. Learn how we put communities first to protect people from harmful environmental exposures <a href="https://bit.ly/3UB7EA9">https://bit.ly/3UB7EA9</a>.
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<title>CDC’s Tracking Network in Action</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/11/15/cdcs-tracking-network-in-action-5/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/11/15/cdcs-tracking-network-in-action-5/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ogf3]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Nov 2022 16:57:49 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[National Center for Environmental Health]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6823</guid>
<description><![CDATA[CDC’s Environmental Public Health Tracking Network empowers people to use data and tools to take public health action and improve community health. CDC’s Environmental Public Health Tracking Network (Tracking Network) has been connecting people with vital public health information since 2009. CDC has made continual improvements to the Tracking Network’s data by developing tools to make it easier to understand and use data. The Tracking Network has also expanded the amount of timely data that can be used for responding to urgent health issues, such as emergency response work and environmental justice. Data Tools for Public Health Action Data Dashboards: CDC’s]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6837" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/Celebrating20_Years.jpg" alt="Black family walking in a park near a city." width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/Celebrating20_Years.jpg 1200w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/Celebrating20_Years-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/Celebrating20_Years-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/Celebrating20_Years-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />
CDC’s Environmental Public Health Tracking Network empowers people to use data and tools to take public health action and improve community health.
<a href="https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/">CDC’s Environmental Public Health Tracking Network</a> (Tracking Network) has been connecting people with vital public health information since 2009. CDC has made continual improvements to the Tracking Network’s data by developing tools to make it easier to understand and use data. The Tracking Network has also expanded the amount of timely data that can be used for responding to urgent health issues, such as emergency response work and environmental justice.
Data Tools for Public Health Action
<ul>
<li>Data Dashboards: CDC’s Tracking Network has developed several interactive, topic-based data dashboards, which are designed to be a user-friendly approach to environmental health data. For example, <a href="https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/Applications/ejdashboard/">CDC’s Environmental Justice (EJ) Dashboard</a> is designed to make environmental justice data easier to understand, and more accessible to those with different levels of health and data literacy. When you enter your zip code into the EJ Dashboard, you can explore interactive infographics and maps to better understand environmental justice issues in your neighborhood. <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/dashboards.htm">Explore more of Tracking’s Data Dashboards</a>.</li>
<li><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-6825" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/EJI-and-Non-White-Races-300x195.png" alt="Two cloropleth maps of Georgia on CDC's Data Explorer." width="375" height="243" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/EJI-and-Non-White-Races-300x195.png 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/EJI-and-Non-White-Races-1024x664.png 1024w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/EJI-and-Non-White-Races-768x498.png 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/EJI-and-Non-White-Races.png 1443w" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px" />Data Explorer: <a href="https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/DataExplorer/">CDC’s Data Explorer</a> is a dynamic web-based tool where you can visualize over 600 data measures on a variety of environmental and health topics. You can visualize data in maps, charts, and tables as well as view different data sets side-by-side. The Data Explorer is always being upgraded with new tools and features. For example, the new Environmental Justice Index (<a href="https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/DataExplorer/?query=82cd32a7-6718-44e9-9e7d-508cfefde14d&M9=4">EJI) is available on the Data Explorer</a> so you can visualize these data alongside other environmental health topics. The image to the right shows the EJI being visualized alongside demographic information (percent of population that identify as non-white, including Hispanic).</li>
<li>Data Science Tools: The Tracking Network provides many tools and resources for you to use the data available for your own websites or analysis. For example, you can use <a href="https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/apihelp">Tracking’s API (Application Program Interface)</a> to import data into different applications for your own analysis and app building.</li>
<li><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-6827" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/NCEH-Blog-Map-2-300x293.jpg" alt="Cloropleth map of the United States on CDC's Data Explorer." width="375" height="366" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/NCEH-Blog-Map-2-300x293.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/NCEH-Blog-Map-2-768x750.jpg 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/NCEH-Blog-Map-2.jpg 838w" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px" />Data Visualization Embedding (DVE): Simply navigate to the Tracking Network’s <a href="https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/DataExplorer/">Data Explorer</a>, select the data you want, and click the “Go” button. When the visualization loads, click on the black and white export/embed icon and select “Data Visualization Embed.” The DVE feature produces a small snippet of code that you can copy and paste into the code for any website. The embedded visualizations maintain the same look and functionality of the Data Explorer, including zoom, hover text, and customizations (e.g., map layers, table sorting, charting options). DVE is available for all maps, tables, and charts generated by the Tracking Network.</li>
<li>CDC’s Tracking Network also has resources for researchers and developers, including data methodologies and tools for analysis available on our <a href="https://github.com/CDCgov/EPHTracking/">GitHub</a>. The Tracking Network also provides training webinars to learn how to use the Tracking Network’s data and API in other programming languages, such as in <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/DeveloperSeries.htm">Tracking’s Developer Series</a>.</li>
</ul>
Data Modernization
CDC’s Environmental Public Health Tracking Program and the Water, Food, and Environmental Health Services Branch are working together to enhance and expand environmental health data modernization efforts across the country. <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/about/DataModernization.htm">Learn more about the Data Modernization efforts of CDC’s Tracking Network.</a>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-6829" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/NCEH-Blog-Map-3-300x247.jpg" alt="Map of United States showing which states are current Tracking grant recipients." width="375" height="309" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/NCEH-Blog-Map-3-300x247.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/NCEH-Blog-Map-3-1024x844.jpg 1024w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/NCEH-Blog-Map-3-768x633.jpg 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/NCEH-Blog-Map-3.jpg 1185w" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px" />
State and Local Health: Tracking in Action
CDC funds <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/grants.htm">33 state and local tracking programs </a>to build, maintain, and implement local tracking programs and data networks, to grow public health capacity and expertise in environmental health surveillance, and to modernize data systems. See how environmental public health tracking programs across the country are making a difference in the lives of individuals.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/projects/grantees/index.htm">Success Stories</a>: The Tracking Network’s data and activities have informed over 500 public health actions in communities across the country.</li>
<li><a href="https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/showTrackingInAction">Tracking in Action</a>: Watch videos showing how tracking programs are improving public health for their communities.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/facesoftracking.htm">Faces of Tracking</a>: Read stories from real people who have benefited from tracking or have used tracking data to propel public health change across the United States.</li>
</ul>
Because of the Tracking Program, communities can make informed decisions about allocating resources, planning interventions, and evaluating efforts to improve public health.
Keep Track of Us!
Follow us on Twitter (@CDC_EPHTracking) and Facebook (@CDCEPHTracking) to stay up to date on Data Explorer features, new tools, national health trends, and more.
More Information
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/facesoftracking.htm">Faces of Tracking</a></li>
<li><a href="https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/showTrackingInAction.action">Tracking in Action video series</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/successstories.htm">Tracking Success Stories</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/grants.htm">State and Local Tracking Programs</a></li>
</ul>
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<title>Introducing CDC/ATSDR’s PFAS Blood Level Estimation Tool</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/11/15/introducing-cdc-atsdrs-pfas-blood-level-estimation-tool/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/11/15/introducing-cdc-atsdrs-pfas-blood-level-estimation-tool/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ogf3]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Nov 2022 14:48:01 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6839</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The PFAS Blood Level Estimation Tool (“the tool”) was created to help individuals who have consumed PFAS-contaminated drinking water and who have information about the levels of PFAS in their water estimate their PFAS blood levels. The tool is a user-friendly, web-based estimator for the public, housed on the ATSDR website. Human exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is a public health concern that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) are helping local, territorial, tribal, state, and federal partners address. Over the last decade, interest in PFAS has]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[The PFAS Blood Level Estimation Tool (“the tool”) was created to help individuals who have consumed PFAS-contaminated drinking water and who have information about the levels of PFAS in their water estimate their PFAS blood levels. The tool is a user-friendly, web-based estimator for the public, housed on the ATSDR website.
<figure id="attachment_6841" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6841" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6841" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/pfas-blood-level-estimation-tool-300x200.jpg" alt="A woman with a blue and white shirt and blue jeans sitting on a couch looking at a blank laptop screen." width="400" height="267" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/pfas-blood-level-estimation-tool-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/11/pfas-blood-level-estimation-tool.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6841" class="wp-caption-text">The PFAS Blood Level Estimation Tool (“the tool”) is a user-friendly, web-based estimator for the public, housed on the ATSDR website.</figcaption></figure>
Human exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is a public health concern that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) are helping local, territorial, tribal, state, and federal partners address. Over the last decade, interest in PFAS has been growing. Communities with exposure to PFAS through their drinking water would like more information about levels of PFAS in their blood.
To help meet this need, CDC and ATSDR launched a PFAS Blood Level Estimation Tool for individuals who consumed PFAS contaminated drinking water. This tool is a web-based estimator for public use that provides personalized estimates of PFAS concentration in blood based on measured PFAS levels in drinking water, including comparison to data reported in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The tool is not intended to replace actual PFAS blood testing.
The PFAS Blood Level Estimation tool was created to help community members obtain an estimate of their PFAS blood levels without having to undergo biological sampling. However, the tool does not provide an estimation or diagnosis of any potential health risks or outcomes based on PFAS exposure; instead, it recommends users talk with their or their child’s health care provider and follow their provider’s recommendations for checkups, vaccinations, and health screening tests.
Additionally, the tool is a resource for the researcher community that enables exploration of the possible range of blood levels that may occur in a community of interest. It will also help researchers understand drinking water exposure and body burden in communities with known PFAS contamination.
The launch of this tool reflects CDC/ATSDR’s commitment to support communities affected by PFAS contamination throughout the nation and advance resources for the research community.
You can find the tool <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/resources/estimating-pfas-blood.html">here</a>.
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<title>Working to Address Children’s Environmental Health</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/10/13/working-to-address-childrens-environmental-health/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/10/13/working-to-address-childrens-environmental-health/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ogf3]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Oct 2022 12:42:23 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6807</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Today, across the nation, we celebrate Children’s Environmental Health Day. This is an opportunity to increase the visibility of children’s environmental health issues, while empowering individuals and organizations to take action on behalf of children nationwide. For the Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units (PEHSUs), this serves as an opportunity to reinforce the need for the work they do all year long! Protecting the health of our children in the environment where they live, learn, and play is central to the PEHSUs’ mission. What are PEHSUs? PEHSUs are a national network of experts in the prevention, diagnosis, management, and treatment of]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_6814" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6814" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6814" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/09/Children-Environmental-Health-Day-300x200.jpg" alt="Diverse group of young children laying down in a circle with their heads togethers all smiling at the camera." width="400" height="267" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/09/Children-Environmental-Health-Day-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/09/Children-Environmental-Health-Day.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6814" class="wp-caption-text">Diverse group of young children laying down in a circle with their heads togethers all smiling at the camera.</figcaption></figure>
Today, across the nation, we celebrate Children’s Environmental Health Day. This is an opportunity to increase the visibility of children’s environmental health issues, while empowering individuals and organizations to take action on behalf of children nationwide.
For the <a href="https://www.pehsu.net/">Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units</a> (PEHSUs), this serves as an opportunity to reinforce the need for the work they do all year long! Protecting the health of our children in the environment where they live, learn, and play is central to the PEHSUs’ mission.
What are PEHSUs?
PEHSUs are a national network of experts in the prevention, diagnosis, management, and treatment of health issues in children that arise from environmental exposures, from preconception through adolescence. PEHSUs are based at academic health institutions, and each is responsible for a different region within the United States.
PEHSUs are funded by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) with support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ATSDR staff manage and lead this program in partnership with a National Program Office, the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Why is children’s environmental health important?
Children are more vulnerable than adults to the effects from exposure to environmental contaminants. These exposures can cause serious health problems in children. Even low levels of exposure to some contaminants, such as lead, can significantly affect a child’s physical and mental development.
Children are at greater risk for exposure and exposure-related health effects for many reasons:
<ul>
<li>Relative to their size, children eat, drink, and breathe more than do adults.</li>
<li>Children frequently put objects in their mouths and play on the floor and ground.</li>
<li>Many parts of a child’s body, such as their nervous system, immune system, and other organ systems, are rapidly developing. Some of these systems help filter pollutants from inhaled air and help process chemicals in the body.</li>
<li>Health problems from environmental exposure can take years to develop. Children have more time to develop health conditions and diseases from exposure than do adults who are exposed later in life.</li>
</ul>
Many healthcare professionals do not receive sufficient environmental health training to be able to recognize and manage environmental exposures in children and pregnant women. They also are not trained to provide appropriate patient counseling to prevent exposures. This makes the work of PEHSUs that much more vital as they fill this critical gap by providing scientifically based healthcare provider training and consultations.
How do PEHSUs work to protect children’s environmental health?
PEHSUs address not only children’s environmental health issues but also reproductive environmental health exposures that affect families and communities. Some examples include safe disinfectant use, how to protect children exposed to wildfire smoke, and how to limit exposures to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), lead, pesticides, and mold.
To better address these issues, PEHSUs work with healthcare professionals, parents, schools, community groups, federal, state, and local government agencies, and others. PEHSUs services include
<ul>
<li>education</li>
<li>outreach</li>
<li>consultations</li>
</ul>
These services are essential to reduce environmental exposure risks for children and families and prevent or limit potential adverse health effects.
What can you do?
Environmental exposures in children can be prevented — and you can learn how! We encourage you to learn more about PEHSUs and help raise awareness about children’s environmental health and how to reduce exposures.
To learn more, visit: <a href="https://www.pehsu.net/">https://www.pehsu.net/</a>
<hr />
Tweet this: Happy #CEHDay! A key piece of @PEHSUNational‘s mission is to protect the health of our children in the environment where they live, learn, and play. Read more, visit: <a href="https://bit.ly/3ezfRpv">https://bit.ly/3ezfRpv</a> #ChildrenAtTheCenter
]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Celebrating Children’s Health Month and Encouraging Collaboration!</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/10/03/celebrating-childrens-health-month-and-encouraging-collaboration/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/10/03/celebrating-childrens-health-month-and-encouraging-collaboration/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ogf3]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 03 Oct 2022 12:26:47 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6800</guid>
<description><![CDATA[October is Children’s Health Month. This observance serves as an opportunity to highlight ATSDR’s on-going work to protect children from environmental hazards that affect their health. Protecting children’s environmental health requires collaboration among their parents and caregivers, communities, health professionals, and local, state, and federal governments. ATSDR has many initiatives in place to protect children’s environmental health and encourage collaboration. This month, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) celebrates Children’s Health Month, along with the seventh annual Children’s Environmental Health Day (October 13th). These observances serve as an opportunity to highlight our on-going work to protect children]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-6802" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/09/childrens-health-month-300x162.jpg" alt="Diverse group of elementary aged children playing at the park and behind them is a silhouette of a cityscape with buildings. The words “Children’s Health Month” appear at the top in pink." width="400" height="216" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/09/childrens-health-month-300x162.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/09/childrens-health-month.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" />
October is Children’s Health Month. This observance serves as an opportunity to highlight ATSDR’s on-going work to protect children from environmental hazards that affect their health. Protecting children’s environmental health requires collaboration among their parents and caregivers, communities, health professionals, and local, state, and federal governments. ATSDR has many initiatives in place to protect children’s environmental health and encourage collaboration.
This month, the <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/">Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)</a> celebrates Children’s Health Month, along with the seventh annual Children’s Environmental Health Day (October 13th). These observances serve as an opportunity to highlight our on-going work to protect children from environmental hazards that affect their health.
We all want our children to thrive where they live, learn, and play. However, children can become ill from environmental exposures to harmful chemicals in the air they breathe, the water they drink, or the soil they touch or swallow.
Protecting children’s environmental health requires collaboration among their parents and caregivers, communities, health professionals, and local, state, and federal governments. ATSDR has many initiatives in place to protect children’s environmental health and encourage collaboration, such as <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/safeplacesforECE/index.html">Choose Safe Places for Early Care and Education</a>.
ATSDR’s initiatives provide communities and partners with the resources they need to identify and reduce environmental hazards and promote a healthier environment for children. We have developed free, practical, online tools to help establish programs in communities. We also provide technical support and guidance to states.
Children need to be at the forefront of our nation’s actions regarding environmental health. Everyone working in the field of children’s environmental health, and public health at large, can work together to meet this need. Together, we can raise awareness and understanding about the critical issues facing our most precious resources and work to mobilize protective action.
ATSDR Initiatives to Protect Children’s Environmental Health
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/states/background.html">APPLETREE</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/safeplacesforECE/index.html">Choose Safe Places for Early Care and Education (CSPECE)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/dontmesswithmercury/index.html">Don’t Mess with Mercury</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/brownfields/overview.html">Land Reuse and Brownfield Program</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.pehsu.net/">Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units (PEHSUS</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/soilshop/index.html">soilSHOP</a></li>
</ul>
We encourage you to join our efforts to improve environmental health for our children and their futures. Visit our websites today and use our tools to learn more about protecting the children in your community from environmental hazards.
<hr />
Tweet this: This Children’s Month help us protect children from harmful environmental health exposures. Read #ATSDRs blog to learn how you can help. <a href="https://bit.ly/3UTVNP4">https://bit.ly/3UTVNP4</a> #ChildrenAtTheCenter
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<title>Emergency Preparedness</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/09/15/emergency-preparedness-2/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/09/15/emergency-preparedness-2/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[wkh9]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Sep 2022 18:26:48 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[National Center for Environmental Health]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6796</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Make a plan. Build a kit. Be prepared. September is National Preparedness Month. Each year, natural disasters are becoming more frequent and intense because of climate change, urbanization, and other factors. Emergencies can happen any place, at any time. It is important to be prepared to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. When disaster strikes, you may not have help right away due to the size of the affected area, loss of communication, and impassible roads. As a result, it is important to have the supplies and information you need to stay safe on hand. Having emergency supplies and]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="h3">Make a plan. Build a kit. Be prepared.</div>
<figure id="attachment_6449" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6449" style="width: 450px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2021/08/emergency-preparedness-supplies-1-e1630416497783.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6449 size-full" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2021/08/emergency-preparedness-supplies-1-e1630416497783.jpg" alt="Emergency preparedness checklist and emergency supply kit." width="450" height="300" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6449" class="wp-caption-text">Prepare an emergency supply kit.</figcaption></figure>
September is National Preparedness Month. Each year, natural disasters are becoming more frequent and intense because of climate change, urbanization, and other factors. Emergencies can happen any place, at any time. It is important to be prepared to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. When disaster strikes, you may not have help right away due to the size of the affected area, loss of communication, and impassible roads. As a result, it is important to have the supplies and information you need to stay safe on hand.
Having emergency supplies and making emergency plans are key when preparing for a disaster. However, results from a fall 2020 survey analyzed by CDC show that many people in the United States may not have these important items to make them ready for a disaster.
Survey results found that 52% of adults in the United States have no emergency preparedness plans and about 64% do not have an emergency supply kit. Age, gender, education level, and region were all found to play an important role in preparedness and emergency supply kit ownership.
Another finding of the survey had to do with confidence: 43% of respondents did not feel confident in their knowledge of how to prepare for an emergency. CDC’s guidance can help you feel better prepared and confident when facing an emergency.
<div class="h4">What can you do to prepare for an emergency?</div>
Planning is crucial. Make sure your <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/prepyourhealth/planahead/index.htm">emergency action plan</a> has all the key information you will need to keep yourself and your loved ones safe in a disaster. As part of your plan, you should have
<ul>
<li>Copies of important paperwork</li>
<li>Designated meeting places outside of the home</li>
<li>Multiple evacuation routes away from home</li>
<li>A safe place to shelter</li>
<li>Emergency communications plan</li>
<li>Emergency phone numbers (e.g., physician, pediatrician, pharmacist, veterinarian, poison control center, animal poison control helpline, disaster distress helpline)</li>
<li>List of pet friendly shelters, hotels, or out of town family or friends</li>
</ul>
Gather <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/prepyourhealth/takeaction/personalneeds/index.htm">personal need items</a> for you and your loved ones, including your pets. Depending on the emergency, local officials may advise people to evacuate. Prepare an emergency supply kit to ensure you are ready if disaster strikes.
If possible, include items to protect your health and others such as
<ul>
<li>Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol,</li>
<li>Bar or liquid soap, disinfectant wipes, and</li>
<li>Multiple clean well-fitting masks for everyone age 2 or older.</li>
</ul>
Other examples of what an <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/prepyourhealth/takeaction/index.htm">emergency supply kit</a> should contain include
<ul>
<li>3-day supply of food and water for each person and pet</li>
<li>Prescription medicines</li>
<li>Flashlights and extra batteries</li>
<li>Radio (hand-crank or battery-powered with extra batteries)</li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/publichealthmatters/2021/05/first-aid-kits/">First-aid supplies</a></li>
</ul>
<div class="h4">Bringing down barriers: emergency preparedness inequities</div>
Preparing for an emergency is the most important and effective way to ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe and healthy when disaster strikes. However, differences in income and access to supplies impact the ability to prepare for many Americans.
Survey results found that people were more likely to have an emergency supply kit if they owned their home, lived in a single-family detached home, had some college education, or had an annual income of $125,000 or more. Those who are less likely to be prepared are more likely to be impacted by disaster, exacerbating existing gaps in health equity among disproportionately affected groups.
Other populations who may be more impacted by a disaster include people with disabilities or special healthcare needs. Planning, preparing supplies, and staying informed can help ensure that you or your loved ones are as comfortable as possible, and all needs are met.
Visit the following websites for more information on preparing for emergencies.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/cpr/infographics/infographic_areyouprepared.htm">Emergency preparedness infographic</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/index.html">Natural disasters and severe weather information</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandsafety/emergency.html">Keeping children with disabilities safe in emergencies</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.cdc.gov/publichealthmatters/2019/12/preparing-children-with-special-healthcare-needs-for-an-emergency/">Preparing children with healthcare needs for an emergency</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/hsb/disaster/household-preparedness-fall2020.htm">Household Preparedness Fall 2020 Factsheet</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/hsb/disaster/household-preparedness-spring2021.htm">Household Preparedness Spring 2021 Factsheet</a></li>
</ul>
Tweet this: “Be prepared for severe weather or natural disaster. Include hand sanitizer, masks, and prescription medicines in your emergency kit in case you need to evacuate. #PrepYourHealth. Learn more at <a href="https://bit.ly/3Lp4hcM">https://bit.ly/3Lp4hcM</a> #CDCEHblog via @CDCEnvironment”
]]></content:encoded>
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<title>National Preparedness Month – Planning for Environmentally Safe Disaster Recovery for Children</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/09/01/national-preparedness-month-planning-for-environmentally-safe-disaster-recovery-for-children/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/09/01/national-preparedness-month-planning-for-environmentally-safe-disaster-recovery-for-children/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ogf3]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Sep 2022 12:32:46 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6760</guid>
<description><![CDATA[September is National Preparedness Month. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, can happen at any time, and preparing for them can be challenging, especially in places where children spend time. However, public health and environmental health professionals can play a role in informing emergency planning in these settings, especially for the recovery process. Families and communities expect schools and childcare centers to keep their children safe from a range of emergency events, including natural disasters. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, can happen at any time, and preparing for them can be challenging. However, public health and environmental health professionals can play]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_6763" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6763" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6763" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/07/disaster-recovery-children-300x200.jpg" alt="Diverse group of elementary aged children running onto a school bus." width="400" height="267" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/07/disaster-recovery-children-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/07/disaster-recovery-children.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6763" class="wp-caption-text">Diverse group of elementary aged children running onto a school bus.</figcaption></figure>
September is National Preparedness Month. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, can happen at any time, and preparing for them can be challenging, especially in places where children spend time. However, public health and environmental health professionals can play a role in informing emergency planning in these settings, especially for the recovery process.
Families and communities expect schools and childcare centers to keep their children safe from a range of emergency events, including natural disasters. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, can happen at any time, and preparing for them can be challenging. However, public health and environmental health professionals can play a role in informing emergency planning in these settings, especially for the recovery process.
At the <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/">Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry</a> (ATSDR), it is well-understood that a child’s environment can directly affect their health and well-being. After a disaster, children might be exposed to harmful substances, such as lead, if they spend time in places that have not been carefully assessed for hazards. As children are at higher risk from environmental hazards because of their <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/childrenindisasters/differences.html">physical, developmental, and behavioral differences</a> from adults, their needs should be considered in emergency preparedness and recovery.
ATSDR’s <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/safeplacesforece/docs/disaster_recovery_supplement-508.pdf">Choose Safe Places for Early Care and Education (CSPECE) Disaster Recovery Supplement</a> helps public and environmental health professionals learn how to reduce children’s environmental exposures where they learn and play. This tool also provides professionals with the information they need to:
<ul>
<li>identify potential hazards and</li>
<li>compile resources to address environmental hazards resulting from disasters, such as flooding and hurricanes, that can affect locations where children spend time</li>
</ul>
Most importantly, it helps establish ways to reduce risk and help community members, particularly children, feel secure as they recover and return to pre-disaster routines.
ATSDR recognizes challenges in preparing for natural disasters especially when it comes to protecting children. However, with the right tools and guidance, schools and childcare centers can plan for how they will recover from incidents before they occur, which can make the recovery process quicker and more effective.
To learn more, visit <a href="https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/safeplacesforece/disaster-recovery-supplement.html">https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/safeplacesforece/disaster-recovery-supplement.html</a>.
<hr />
Tweet this: This National Preparedness Month, plan ahead and protect children from harmful exposures during #DisasterRecovery. Read #ATSDRs blog to learn how you can help. <a href="https://bit.ly/3cD9Ua4">https://bit.ly/3cD9Ua4</a> #BeReady
]]></content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Manage Your Asthma During Disasters</title>
<link>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/08/03/manage-your-asthma-during-disasters/</link>
<comments>https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/2022/08/03/manage-your-asthma-during-disasters/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ogf3]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:58:47 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[National Center for Environmental Health]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/?p=6769</guid>
<description><![CDATA[*Note: This vignette is a fictional account showing the risks people with asthma might face during an emergency. Carla* has asthma. To help her manage her asthma, she worked with her doctor to develop an Asthma Action Plan. The plan details the steps Carla needs to take to keep her asthma from getting worse. She also carries her medication everywhere she goes in case she has an asthma attack. Mold is one of her asthma triggers, so she often checks to make sure there are no water leaks or mold in her home. Even though Carla is used to managing]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-6777 size-medium" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-graphic-300x204.jpg" alt="Graphic showing a person using an inhaler with illustrations of pollen and clouds in the background " width="300" height="204" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-graphic-300x204.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-graphic-1024x696.jpg 1024w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-graphic-768x522.jpg 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-graphic-1536x1044.jpg 1536w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-graphic-2048x1392.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
*Note: This vignette is a fictional account showing the risks people with asthma might face during an emergency.
Carla* has asthma. To help her manage her asthma, she worked with her doctor to develop an <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/actionplan.html">Asthma Action Plan</a>. The plan details the steps Carla needs to take to keep her asthma from getting worse. She also carries her medication everywhere she goes in case she has an asthma attack. Mold is one of her <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/triggers.html">asthma triggers</a>, so she often checks to make sure there are no water leaks or mold in her home.
Even though Carla is used to managing her asthma, she wasn’t prepared when a hurricane reached her coastal town. Carla evacuated her home as instructed by local officials. Her asthma medication was contaminated in floodwater, and she did not have a safely stored backup supply. Her pharmacy had been damaged in the storm and she needed to find a place to replace her medication and supplies.
Carla got sick with the flu, which irritated her airways and made her asthma symptoms worse. When she arrived home, she also found that water had soaked her furniture, allowing mold to grow in several rooms. Afterwards, Carla reflected on her experience and knew she could have prepared better.
People who live with asthma, like Carla, face additional risks during disasters. Extreme events such as hurricanes and wildfires could increase asthma triggers, damage medications, and cause asthma attacks. These risks are present even after a disaster ends.
It’s important to know how you can manage these risks, especially during hurricane season. Take some time to learn how to control your asthma before, during, and after a disaster.
<figure id="attachment_6773" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6773" style="width: 500px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6773" src="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-emergency-300x300.jpg" alt="A graphic titled "Asthma Care During an Emergency."" width="500" height="501" srcset="https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-emergency-300x300.jpg 300w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-emergency-1021x1024.jpg 1021w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-emergency-150x150.jpg 150w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-emergency-768x770.jpg 768w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-emergency-1532x1536.jpg 1532w, https://blogs.cdc.gov/yourhealthyourenvironment/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2022/08/asthma-emergency-2042x2048.jpg 2042w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6773" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="#description">View text description</a></figcaption></figure>
Before Disasters
<ul>
<li>Have an Asthma Action Plan: Develop an <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/action-plan/documents/asthma-action-plan-508.pdf">Asthma Action Plan</a> with your doctor. The plan will help you prevent and control asthma attacks, and it will tell you when you need to use prescribed medication. Continue to follow your Asthma Action Plan before, during, and after a disaster.</li>
<li>Stock up on supplies: Have at least a 7-10 day supply of your asthma medication. Also keep copies of important documents, such as your insurance card, prescriptions, Asthma Action Plan, and doctor’s contact information.</li>
<li>Get a flu shot: People with asthma are at higher risk of having serious health problems if they get a respiratory infection, like the flu. Follow <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/asthma.htm?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fflu%2Fasthma%2Findex.htm">CDC guidance for getting a flu shot</a> every year.</li>
</ul>
During Disasters
<ul>
<li>Avoid your asthma triggers: Disasters are associated with several asthma triggers. For example, high winds during disasters could spread dust and pollen. Water could also enter buildings during floods and hurricanes, which could increase the risk of <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mold/default.htm">mold growth</a> and trigger an asthma attack. People with asthma should be aware of their asthma triggers and avoid them when possible.</li>
<li>Keep your hands clean: Follow CDC’s guidelines to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/hygiene-handwashing-diapering/handwashing-and-hygiene-during-emergencies.html">wash your hands</a>. This can reduce the spread of germs and lower the risk of becoming infected with an illness that further inflames your airways and lungs.</li>
<li>Inspect your asthma medication: If your medications are exposed to unsafe water during disasters, they could become contaminated. Follow the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/emergency-preparedness-drugs/safe-drug-use-after-natural-disaster">FDA’s guidelines for safe drug use</a> after a natural disaster. If you don’t have insurance, you may be able to get help with prescription drugs or medical supplies through the <a href="https://www.phe.gov/Preparedness/planning/epap/Pages/default.aspx">Emergency Prescription Assistance Program</a>.</li>
</ul>
After Disasters 
<ul>
<li>Plan for mold cleanup in your home: People with asthma should try to avoid moldy sites and mold clean-up. The home must be dry before cleanup begins. Read <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mold/cleanup-guide.html">the Homeowner’s and Renter’s Guide to Mold Cleanup After Disasters</a> to learn more about safely cleaning up mold and dealing with water damage to building furnishings, furniture, and other belongings. The document provides information about protective clothing and equipment, cleaning supplies, and health effects of mold exposure.</li>
<li>Disinfect surfaces: Anything that has come in contact with floodwater could carry germs. <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/cleanup/facts.html">Cleaning surfaces and household items after a disaster</a> might result in use of some types of disinfectants that can trigger asthma. If possible, ask someone without asthma to disinfect your home. All surfaces need to be cleaned, including tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, and phones. When cleaning, keep windows open for ventilation and apply disinfectant to a cloth or towel rather than spraying it.</li>
<li>Take care of your mental health: Stress can trigger an asthma attack. Follow <a href="https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/index.asp">CDC’s guidance to cope</a> with the strong emotions you might feel after a disaster or traumatic event.</li>
</ul>
If you or a loved one has asthma, prepare for emergencies. Remember to have enough medication and other supplies to manage your condition, avoid your asthma triggers whenever possible, and become familiar with helpful tools including resources to cope with stress. This will help you be better prepared to manage asthma when disaster strikes.
Additional Resources:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/asthma_care_during_emergency.html">Asthma care during an emergency</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/asthma_control.html">Asthma care before, during, and after a hurricane or other tropical storm </a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/clinicians_asthma.html">Information for clinicians helping patients with asthma after a hurricane</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/cpr/readywrigley/documents/17_279940_Ready_Wrigley_mold_508_1.pdf">Flooding and mold activity book</a></li>
</ul>
<hr />
Tweet this: “Did you know people with #asthma face additional risks during emergencies like hurricanes or floods? Prepare now by reading the latest #CDCEHblog: <a href="https://bit.ly/3BDoDvO">https://bit.ly/3BDoDvO</a> via @CDCEnvironment”
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<a id="description"></a>A graphic titled “Asthma Care During an Emergency.”
There are four illustrations with accompanying text. The first illustration shows an inhaler with text that says, “Take all of your asthma medication as prescribed.” The second illustration shows hands under running water with text that says, “Wash your hands with soap and water.” The third illustration shows a spray bottle with cleaning solution and text that says, “Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.” The fourth illustration shows a smiling face and a frowning face with text that says, “Take steps to help yourself cope. Strong emotions can trigger an asthma attack.”
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