Hurricane Ike have have left disease, depression in wake

Following on the heels of Hurricane Ike's deadly winds and rains are a host of health problems facing area residents and rescue workers, medical experts say.

While they don't get the headlines amidst the death and destruction, the hurricane left in its wake ailments ranging from broken bones and lacerations to dehydration and depression.

The chronically ill are most at risk, since they may not have access to their medications and treatment, says Dr. John D. Cahill, co-director of tropical and travel medicine services at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center.

"If a person is on dialysis and the dialysis machine's not working because there is no electricity, this is dangerous," says Cahill. "If you are diabetic, you may not have your insulin, the prescription or even your insurance card anymore. It's a very bad situation."

In areas without power and with no access to safe drinking water, a variety of waterborne illnesses can start to surface, Cahill says. Among these is shigella, an illness that causes severe diarrhea and malaise.

more:http://www.nydailynews.com/lifestyle/health/2008/09/18/2008-09-18_hurricane_ike_have_have_left_disease_dep.html

Wasn't the National Guard called out? Or is it in Iraq?

Not only Ike, but Gustav, as well. I live in NOLA. I have noticed a strange mold growing on our steps outside (concrete), but not our back ones (wood). We also have the same mold growing in the house. Anyone who has loved or been to NOLA knows that shit grows everywhere here! Stand still long enough and a damn plant will sprout off of you. Since Katrina, there has been an increase in respiratory and skin conditions in residents who returned. G-d only knows what gets churned up when a hurricane comes ripping through.