Can the oil harm my child?
Although the oil may contain some chemicals that could cause harm to children, at this time we expect the levels of these chemicals to be well below the level that could cause harm. The effects would depend on things like how children have come into contact with the oil, how much contact they have had with the oil, and if they have conditions such as asthma. As with any potentially harmful substance, children should avoid contact with the oil, including playing in oil-affected areas. See below for tips to protect your child.
The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are working together to continue monitoring the levels of oil and oil dispersants in the environment. If we begin to find levels that are likely to be harmful, we will tell the public. For up-to-date information on monitoring data along the Gulf Coast, please visit EPA’s website.
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