A Norfolk Southern train derailed in the midwestern town on 3 February, releasing toxic chemicals into the air. Since then, residents have reported headaches, nausea, burning eyes and sore throats. The clinic will offer nurses, mental health specialists and a toxicologist, Ohio’s Department of Heath says.
Frustrated residents say they have been unable to get clear answers from officials regarding the safety of the town following the disaster. They point to contradictory advice from officials and various agencies, some of which have claimed local water sources are safe while others have advised drinking bottled water. About 3,500 fish died off in the nearby creeks after the accident, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Some residents have reported sick pets and dying chickens.
Others have spoken of experiencing psychological trauma. Among the chemicals released in the incident was vinyl chloride, a colourless, hazardous gas that is used to make PVC plastic and vinyl products. It is also a known carcinogen. Acute exposure is linked to dizziness, drowsiness and headaches, while prolonged exposure can cause liver damage and a rare form of liver cancer.
Representatives from the train company Norfolk Southern skipped a town hall meeting last week, where they had been scheduled to answer residents’ questions.