UK public health expert speaks on train derailment concerns

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Questions about public health safety continue to emerge after a 50-car derailment that spilled toxic chemicals near the Ohio and Pennsylvania state line.

Now, more than a week since the fiery derailment, residents in East Palestine, Ohio and beyond want to know if the air and water are safe.

Health experts say that testing is happening everyday in that area, but the job is far from over.

“We should never say we are done looking at this community for exposures and potential health impacts… and some may not occur until later,” said Dr. Erin Haynes of the University of Kentucky Department of Public Health.

Haynes says that common immediate symptoms of exposure have been eye and skin irritations, respiratory issues, rashes and headaches.