As Houston reels from the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, a surge in carbon monoxide poisoning cases is straining the city's healthcare system. Memorial Hermann — Texas Medical Center has been grappling with an unusually high number of these cases, with their hyperbaric chamber, typically reserved for the most acute patients, being used daily. Dr. Joseph Nevarez, a UTHealth Houston professor, described the situation as "I think we’re on record pace here unfortunately," in terms of the instances of poisoning being treated, according to the Houston Chronicle.
Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of various household items, notably portable generators, which have become go-to solutions during power outages caused by hurricanes. Yet these generators are now being linked to a sharp increase in poisoning complaints. As reported by the Houston Chronicle, health departments monitoring the post-hurricane scenario saw an alarming 116 carbon monoxide-related visits from Monday to Thursday morning. Dr. David Persse, Houston's Chief Medical Officer, emphasized the importance of generator safety, pointing out common misuse such as placing them too close to living areas—even a cracked garage door does not suffice for ventilation.
While many focus on the pitfalls of portable generators, professionally installed standby generators are not without risk. Cy-Fair Fire Department's Lt. Eddie Cruz highlighted multiple incidents related to carbon monoxide from standby generators since the storm hit. Cruz mentioned that carbon monoxide risks exist area-wide in Houston, emphasizing that even the more 'professional' solutions can backfire when safety steps are skipped or installation is improperly expedited. Steven Ashley, an electrician with Abacus, noted the extensive process required for a secure generator installation, indicating a month or longer period from start to finish. Ashley's comments were reported by ABC13.
With hospitals already overwhelmed by non-storm-related incidents, the spike in carbon monoxide cases represents a serious public health issue. Dr. Esmaeil Porsa, CEO of Harris Health, observed an unusual overflow at Ben Taub and Lyndon B. Johnson hospitals, with inpatient beds at a premium. Houston Methodist system also experienced record ER numbers earlier in the week, stating a surge in hospital visits for heat-related illnesses as well, revealed Dr. Ben Saldaña to the Houston Chronicle. Meanwhile, Baylor St. Luke's saw a delay in patient discharges due to a lack of safe discharge destinations, pushing the overall patient volume even higher.
As the city continues to combat the repercussions of Hurricane Beryl, the incidents underline the critical need for public education on the dangers of carbon monoxide and the safe operation of generators. Health officials stress the importance of proper generator placement and the life-saving potential of carbon monoxide sensors.
