What is the public health problem?
Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. CO is found in combustion fumes, such as those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and gas ranges and heating systems. CO from these sources can build up in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces. People and animals in these spaces can be poisoned by breathing it.
What are CDC activities?
- Maintaining CDC’s CO Web site (http://www.cdc.gov/co/default.htm),
which provides basic information on CO poisoning prevention, Q&As,
reports, and other resources
- Monitoring, evaluating, and presenting surveillance data
- Conducting and publishing findings of a 2002 study of national
vehicle emissions policies and practices and declining U.S. CO-related
mortality
- Working with national and state data sources to expand
surveillance beyond mortality
- Conducting and publishing findings of a 2002 study of national
vehicle emissions policies and practices and declining U.S. CO-related
mortality
- Strengthening state and local capacity to respond to CO-related
issues
- Responding to state requests for technical assistance
- Working with state and local partners to shape and target outreach
and education efforts
- Responding to state requests for technical assistance
- Developing an agenda for research, partnership, and education
related to CO poisoning prevention
- Assessing methods to formally evaluate effectiveness of CO
detectors
- Engaging private industry and regulatory agencies to reduce CO
exposure
- Working with regulatory agencies, the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, and CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health to develop standards for boat engines and CO emissions
- Assessing methods to formally evaluate effectiveness of CO
detectors
- Responding to public inquiries
For more information, please contact:
CDC/National Center for Environmental Health
Division of Environmental Hazards and Health Effects
Phone: 1-888-232-6789; E-mail:
EHHEinq@cdc.gov;
Web site: http://www.cdc.gov/co/default.htm
