What types of environmental health hazards are especially important to consider for protecting children?
There are many. Air pollution, lack of a reliable water supply, sewage and sanitation services, food supply, electricity and communication networks could all place children in harm’s way. The air may be polluted by the dust from debris, mold, and fumes from household chemicals being used for clean-up and restoration. Water may not be safe for children to drink and debris and mud may contain disease-causing organisms and chemicals that could potentially harm children. Lack of sanitation and sewage services could lead to infections and diarrheal diseases. Flood water in homes and schools may cause mold growth, deterioration of lead paint, and structural damage. Mold growth will be one of the most challenging and long-term problems resulting from the hurricanes and floods. Standing water may result in more mosquitoes and other pests. As the debris and mud begin to dry out, the amount of dust in the air will increase. Clean-up activities may expose children to a variety of chemicals.
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