In the wake of hurricane Katrina, thousands of homes were flooded in New Orleans. It stands to reason that this water damage likely resulted in a serious mold outbreak for many families returning to their homes after the storm. Dirt and mold-induced health problems became so widespread that they even received a nickname – the Katrina Cough.
Also called “Katrina’s Revenge,” Doctors have been treating patients in New Orleans for the Katrina Cough, which has symptoms such as coughing, sinus headaches, congestion, runny nose, and pink eye. Patients who already had asthma are complaining that their symptoms have worsened since returning to their homes.
Even five years since the hurricane hit, people are still coughing and exhibiting symptoms. It’s likely that many hurricane victims never properly remediated their homes and probably still have mold growing in unseen places. Since Katrina, hospitals have seen a 25% increase in patient complaints regarding headaches, congestion, and runny noses.
One family has moved out of their home and into a trailer because of mold. They are suing FEMA for damages to their home. City officials say they should have made adequate repairs sooner with the $20,000 given to them in reimbursement funds, which would have prevented mold growth in their water-damaged home.
Usually the Katrina Cough is not serious and can be treated with nasal sprays, antihistamines, and antibiotics. But immunocompromised individuals like the elderly, children, or organ transplant patients have more to worry about. On the plus side, the Katrina Cough does raise awareness of the dangers of mold to our health.
Mold is a problem that affects everyone, but it can be controlled with proper education and preparation.
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