Occupational Exposure and Health Symptoms Related to the Tijuana River Valley Sewage Crisis – Results from an Assessment of Chemical Exposures, California, 2024
Nadia T. Saif, Stacey Konkle, Valerie Madera-Garcia, Brooke S. Staley, Audrey E. Kennar, Jelonia T. Rumph, Mark E. Beatty, Seema Shah, Marisol Valenzuela Lara, DaJuandra Eugene, Fhallon Ware-Gilmore, Andrea Danielle Brown, Fuyuen Yip, Dallas ShiObjective:
Describe health outcomes among workers affected by the Tijuana River Valley (TRV) sewage crisis.
Methods:
In October–November 2024, a cross-sectional online survey was administered to individuals who worked in areas affected by the TRV sewage crisis as part of an Assessment of Chemical Exposures.
Results:
Among 443 workers, 110 (25%) reported direct contact with contaminated Tijuana River or beach water. 55% of workers reported exposure to severe odor. Nearly two-thirds experienced physical symptoms attributed to the crisis, and one-third missed work due to symptoms. Direct water contact was linked to higher prevalence of physical and mental health symptoms and absenteeism. Those reporting work-related direct water contact were largely outdoor workers.
Conclusions:
TRV workers have experienced health impacts due to the ongoing sewage crisis. Findings may help inform public health response and resource needs.