The severe blizzard that struck Colorado on December 24 and 25,
1982, has raised questions about the public health impact of a snow
disaster. Epidemiologic studies of a similar storm in New England
in
February 1978 may help officials facing similar conditions (1-4).
Major findings of the 1978 studies follow: 1) Although total
mortality did not increase significantly during the blizzard in
eastern Massachusetts, a third (27) of all deaths were classed as
storm related. Eight persons stranded in cars died, five from
carbon
monoxide intoxication. 2) Total mortality and mortality from
ischemic
heart disease increased significantly in Rhode Island. 3) The
number
of emergency room visits declined 64% in Rhode Island and 56% in
eastern Massachusetts during the blizzard but returned to normal in
a
few days. 4) Hospitals in Massachusetts had supply problems because
delays in discharging patients raised occupancy rates to capacity.
5)
No disease outbreaks and no water or sanitation hazards could be
verified in eastern Massachusetts although seven were reported.
Based on this and other information, officials should consider
the
following recommendations during blizzards: 1) Early in the storm,
warn against non-essential driving. 2) Announce publicly that
persons
who must drive should have extra clothes and food with them and
remain
in their vehicle if stranded. Advise extreme caution if the
heating
system is used, even for short periods, while the vehicle is
stopped.
Exhaust systems may become blocked with snow, and ventilation
adequacy
is hard to determine. 3) Establish a rumor clearinghouse to
investigate reported disease outbreaks and environmental health
hazards. 4) Rapidly investigate storm-related deaths to dispel
rumors
and gain data. 5) Advise hospitals that anticipate overcrowding
and
supply shortages to discharge and transport patients home early,
using
emergency vehicles if necessary.
Reported by Field Svcs Div, Epidemiology Program Office, Special
Studies Br, Chronic Diseases Div, Center for Environmental Health,
CDC.
References
Glass RI, O'Hare P, Conrad JL. Health consequences of the snow
disaster in Massachusetts, February 6, 1978. Am J Public Health
1979; 69:1047-49.
Faich G. Health impact of the 1978 blizzard. Rhode Island
Disease
Bulletin 1978;15:4.
Faich G, Rose R. Blizzard morbidity and mortality: Rhode
Island,
1978. Am J Public Health 1979;69:1050-2.
Glass RI, Zack MM. Increase in deaths from ischaemic heart
disease
after blizzards. Lancet 1979;1:485-7.
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