Fumes Reach Costal Counties

[Nelson Muntz]

http://www.wlox.com/Global/story.asp?S=12412109

BILOXI, MS (WLOX) - Petroleum fumes are now in all coastal counties. Dr. Bob Travnicek with the State Department of Health reiterated to WLOX the fumes are not dangerous. Travnicek advises people who are more sensitive to the smell to stay indoors.

Few people who are very sensitive to the fumes and air quality issues may experience:

    * Nausea
    * Vomiting
    * Headaches

If you have these symptoms, you should consider staying indoors, ventilating your home with air conditioning and avoiding strenuous outdoor activity. Removing yourself from the odor will generally clear up the symptoms.

If these symptoms do not improve, you should then consider contacting your primary care physician or other health care provider for medical advice.

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma or other respiratory illness, you should consider communicating with your physician if you feel symptomatic. If you experience a medical emergency, call 911

The EPA is continually monitoring coast air quality for changes and possible risks. MSDH will issue appropriate alerts if dangers exist.