The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has confirmed the presence of naturally occurring asbestos in Washington’s Sumas River. It is believed that the source of the asbestos fibers stems from a hillside situated above Swift Creek. During flooding in January of 2009, high waters purportedly washed the asbestos into the water stream.
This contaminated water was then transported into the Sumas River, which flows from Washington into Canada. It is possible that such naturally occurring asbestos has been contaminating the river stream for as many as 50 years.
Now, the fear is that people living nearby (in areas such as Whatcom County) may have been contaminated with unhealthy asbestos exposure. Frequent coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing are just a few of the symptoms associated with mesothelioma and other illnesses related to asbestos. For those living in the area, a mesothelioma doctor may be able to help diagnose any asbestos-related illnesses.
A mesothelioma lawyer can help patients in both firsthand and secondhand exposure cases. Mesothelioma attorneys have helped sufferers receive fair compensation to help pay for medical bills, pain and suffering. If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos, please contact a mesothelioma lawyer at Simons, Eddins & Greenstone, LLP – 1-866-632-7574.
Tags: asbestos, EPA, mesothelioma
