CDC to Hold Public Meetings in La. to Discuss Trailer Issues

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention plan to hold seven public meetings in south Louisiana to talk with residents about the findings of dangerous levels of formaldehyde fumes in many occupied FEMA trailers.

The CDC said fumes from 519 tested trailers and mobile homes in Louisiana and Mississippi were on average about five times what people are exposed to in most modern homes. Formaldehyde, a preservative commonly used in construction materials, can lead to breathing problems and is also believed to cause cancer.

CDC says the meetings will include a presentation by a CDC scientist and opportunities for residents with health concerns to speak one-on-one with government scientists and health professionals.

The meetings are set for Feb. 25 in Baker; Feb. 26 in New Orleans; Feb. 27 in Chalmette and Jefferson; and Feb. 28 in Lake Charles.

Two meetings are planned for New Orleans and Lake Charles.