The Wildfire Generation: How The Lasting Negative Health Effects From Fires’ Smoke Will Affect Today’s Children
A study done on monkeys who had spent infancy in a wildfire haze found that they had less lung capacity, stiffer lungs that couldn’t stretch as far when they breathed and reduced immune system function than monkeys who weren't born into that environment. The results paint a grim picture of what young California residents may have to deal with in the future.
FiveThirtyEight:
California’s Wildfires Could Mean A Generation Of Lung Problems
The current batch of California wildfires has reminded us of the acute short-term dangers of smoke inhalation. But the danger doesn’t stop there. (Koerth-Baker, 11/20)
Reveal:
The Smoke’s Gone, But Hearts And Lungs Still May Be In Danger Months After Wildfires
Three to five months after the 37,000-acre Tubbs Fire in Napa and Sonoma valleys in October 2017, the region’s emergency rooms treated about 20 percent more patients for respiratory and cardiac ailments compared with previous years, according to the analysis, which used state data. At the time, the Tubbs Fire was the most destructive in California history, killing 22 people and destroying nearly 6,000 structures. (Glantz and Neilson, 11/28)
Ventura County Star:
Wildfires Bring Medicare Extension To Area Residents
An extension triggered by the California wildfires allows people covered by Medicare to make enrollment decisions and other coverage changes until March 31. The extension, announced by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, pushes back a deadline that would normally fall on Dec. 7. It means area residents affected by Woolsey and Hill fires can switch, enroll or drop out of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D offerings. (11/28)
Sacramento Bee:
No New Dead Found In Camp Fire; Paradise Residents May Be Allowed To Return In Coming Days
For the third day in a row, Butte County searchers reported Wednesday they found no new human remains in areas burned by the Camp Fire, prompting the county’s sheriff to say he is hoping the death toll has reached its peak. That number, 88, is the highest by far in California history from a wildfire. (Bizjak, 11/28)