3.19.25 Action Update: An ongoing investigation of elevated carboxyhemoglobin levels by the Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts (RCAHD) is an evolving situation.
As of 3.19.25, RCAHD received approximately 200 reports of possible elevated carboxyhemoglobin levels between 1.31.25 and 2.7.25 in Covington/ Alleghany area residents.
RCAHD has completed 151 interviews.
- We have made at least one attempt to reach each of the remaining 50 patients.
We are currently analyzing the information that people shared with us during their interview. Early results show that:
- No people have been hospitalized, and no significant illness has been associated with this investigation.
- Headaches, tiredness (fatigue), dizziness, and nausea or vomiting were the most common symptoms that patients reported.
- Most people reported that their symptoms have improved.
Ongoing activity with this investigation includes:
- Working with local healthcare providers, including laboratory managers, Blue Ridge Poison Control (BRPC), the state toxicologist, the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and others to systematically investigate possible factors related to the recent cluster of reports.
- Trying to reach the remaining patients to complete interviews and analyze the results of the information that has been collected.
-end update-