Formaldehyde-related Health Concerns

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided either mobile homes or travel trailers to Gulf Coast victims who had lost their homes in the hurricane. Concerns have surfaced recently about air quality in the trailers and the occurrence of respiratory and other symptoms resulting from exposure to formaldehyde or other respiratory irritants among residents of the mobile homes. CDC is working with FEMA to investigate the health concerns of those living in the trailers and mobile homes.

People living in FEMA trailers who are concerned about the level of formaldehyde in their trailers and the possible health risks of contact with formaldehyde should seek appropriate assistance.

• For concerns about conditions in your trailer, contact FEMA at 1-866-562-2381 (TTY 1-800-462-7585).

• For concerns about medical problems that you think may be related to the trailer, talk to a doctor or other medical professional.

• The level of formaldehyde in a trailer can be lowered by opening windows and ventilating the area with fans or air conditioning units set to ventilate.

What is Formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde is a common chemical in our environment. Sources of formaldehyde in the environment may include:

• Smog

• Cigarettes and other tobacco products, gas cookers, and open fireplaces

• Manufactured wood products used in new mobile homes

• Household sources, such as fiberglass, carpets, permanent press fabrics, paper products, and some household cleaners

Exposure to low levels of formaldehyde may cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. It is possible that people with asthma may be more sensitive to the effects of inhaled formaldehyde.

Additional Information and Resources

• Frequently Asked Questions About Formaldehyde

• Indoor Air Quality-Related Health Concerns Raised by Displaced Gulf Coast Residents

• Health Consultation: Formaldehyde Sampling at FEMA Temporary Housing Units

• Information about Exposure to Formaldehyde on the Job

• Sources of Indoor Air Pollution – Formaldehyde (EPA)

• Information about Formaldehyde Reaction for Physicians ( 28 KB)

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or 1-866-562-2381