Epidemiologic Investigation of Injuries Associated With the 2013 Fertilizer Plant Explosion in West, Texas

• DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2015.186
• Publication Date: 2016-03-02T04:47:25Z
• Authors: Kristi Metzger; Hammad Akram; Bonnie Feldt; Kahler Stone; Stephanie Alvey; Sandi Henley; Alicia Hernandez; Sharon Melville; Tracy Haywood; David Zane
• Keywords: Adult; Male; Adolescent; Middle Aged; Texas; Fires; 3. Good health; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Blast Injuries; Surveys and Questionnaires; Accidents, Occupational; Humans; Female; Fertilizers

Abstract Objective On April 17, 2013, a fire and subsequent explosion occurred at the West Fertilizer Company plant in West, Texas, caused extensive damage to adjacent neighborhood. This investigation described fatal nonfatal injuries by explosion. Methods Persons injured fertilizer were identified through death certificates, medical examination reports, records, survivor interviews. Data on patient characteristics, type of injury, location injury collected. Results Medical record review indicated that 252 individuals sought care for directly related immediately after Fifteen patients died sustained blast. Almost one-quarter admitted treatment injuries. Injuries included abrasions/contusions, lacerations/penetrating trauma, traumatic brain injuries/concussions, tinnitus/hearing problems, eye injuries, inhalational Patients located closer more likely be hospital than those who further away. Conclusion Explosions this magnitude are rare, but can inflict severe community its residents. could useful planning resource other communities, public health agencies, first responders, facilities. ( Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness . 2016;10:583–590)