Poison Centers Prepared to Answer Health-Related Questions About Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 5 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As the Gulf Coast prepares for the environmental impact of a massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf region poison centers stand ready to answer questions about health concerns related to the spill.

Beyond the risk of contamination to seafood, poison centers are prepared to deal with calls related to fumes from the spill, which can cause nausea and dizziness. Poison centers are also prepared to handle calls related to skin contact with the oil, which can cause irritation and burning. Those with any sort of health-related questions regarding the spill can call their poison center at 1 (800) 222-1222.

Dr. Mark Ryan, managing director of the Louisiana Poison Control Center, said he expects that once the oil reaches land, his poison center and other Gulf Coast poison centers may be dealing with the after-effects for some time.

But in the weeks ahead, "we are expecting relief workers who have come from all over the country will be exposed to the oil and exposed to the vapors and fumes, because they will be working in close proximity," he said. He urged relief workers to pay attention to air monitoring and wear proper respiratory equipment especially if the air quality declines.

People with existing conditions such as asthma should be aware that their conditions can be exacerbated if air quality declines. As for those who come in contact with oil, Ryan suggests they wash the exposed area as quickly as possible with soap and water, but call a poison center if problems continue.

"Poison centers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to answer questions about oil fumes or any other substance that could be harmful to your health," said Jim Hirt, executive director of the American Association of Poison Control Centers. "By calling your poison center, you'll receive free and confidential advice from a medical professional trained to know the impact of a substance and how to treat a poison exposure."

If you have a question about poisonings or a poison exposure, call your local poison center at 1 (800) 222-1222.

About the American Association of Poison Control Centers: The American Association of Poison Control Centers is a non-profit, national organization founded in 1958 that represents poison control centers of the United States and the interests of poison prevention and treatment of poisoning. www.aapcc.org

SOURCE American Association of Poison Control Centers