DEP hotline Q&A on HVAC cleaning and debris assessment, n.d.

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

The wet methods and use of a HEPA vac which we are recommending take into account the need to remove fibers of all sizes. A HEPAvac is designed to capture small fibers.

• Can toddlers IngesVInhale small asbestos fibers if they crawl on the rugs and floor (even though they have been cleaned)?

Cleaning surfaces regularly greatly reduces the risk of any possible - contamination. No-one can provide any absolute guarantees about this or many other types of environmental exposures but we can only urge parents to keep their floors clean.

D. Communication with Local Health Providers

• Doctors are prescribing antibiotics for the WTC cough. Is this a proper treatment?

Antibiotics are useful for treating bacterial infections. Antibiotics are not recommended in most cases for allergies, viruses or for treating symptoms of respiratory irritation, unless there is an underlying bacterial infection. (NJ/CB)

• What advice is the Health Department giving to local doctors?

The DOH has worked with physicians in the community to provide them with information on environmental monitoring and potential health effects. These health care providers include those working in schools, the fire department, police and other uniformed services.

The DOH is available to physicians who have specific Questions on environmental exposures and known health effects.

• Is anyone collecting information from local doctors about the patients they are seeing?

Most of the information being collected is for workers, particulariv those who were first responders or worked directly at the WTC-site,

• Are there recommendations for taking supplements to off set the effects of the dust and air?

No. Herbal supplements, kelation therapies and other detoxification protocols are not being recommended by the DOH.

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