War Related Illness and Injury Study Center

AHBPCE Updated Information ON COVID-19

We recognize that there has been so much scientific and medical information being communicated related to COVID-19. We know that Veterans also have a number of questions and concerns. Yet with so much information out there, it may be difficult to understand the specific implications for yourself, your family and loved ones. The Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence (AHBPCE) continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our Veterans and is taking steps to contribute to what is known and respond to questions that Veterans may have.

A question we are often asked is whether Veterans are at increased risk for poor outcomes given potential exposures or deployment. In general we know from the CDC that there are a number of health conditions that may put an individual at increased risk of susceptibility to COVID-19 that includes: chronic kidney disease, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart conditions, being immunocompromised from solid organ transplant, obesity a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or higher, or severe obesity (BMI of 40kg/m2 or higher, sickle cell disease, smoking or type 2 diabetes ( See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html as the list may change).

In terms of Veterans, what we know is that our Veteran communities of color, older Veterans, those living in rural areas, and those that are homeless are disproportionately impacted by this pandemic. We also know that older male Veterans with multiple medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney and liver disease appear to be most at risk for COVID-19 related hospitalization and death. These reports are sobering and reflect our Nation’s broad experience with this pandemic to date.

What remains less well known is the long-term impact on the physical and mental health of Veterans who were infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 who did not require hospitalization or have been discharged. The AHBPCE is currently initiating a research project to reach out to these Veterans to understand their specific symptoms, any treatment they may have received and their recovery. It is very important to understand any of these Veterans ongoing problems possibly linked to COVID. We are aware of published studies and medical case reports in non-Veterans suggesting prolonged symptom recovery including shortness of breath, fatigue, and cognitive concerns. This is important because these are many of the same symptoms our Veterans with airborne hazards and open burn pit exposure concerns self-report irrespective of COVID-19. We are also analyzing data using the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry to identify patterns or clusters of individuals who may be at greater risk of COVID-19 and its associated illness.

Over time we have learned of some more effective treatments to reduce the effects of COVID-19 in addition to best practices to avoiding infection such as social distancing and face coverings. These practices need to continue. The availability of vaccines for COVID-19 is our best way forward to prevent infection and stop this pandemic. The safety of any vaccine is clearly important, and the good news is that those that are becoming available have demonstrated both safety and that they are effective. The VA has been working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and other partners to ensure Veterans and their providers are able to receive a vaccine as it becomes available and some VA staff and providers as well as Veterans in long term care facilities are already receiving it. Please see the link below for more information.
 
https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/

Again, we appreciate any questions and concerns Veterans have. Our goal at the AHBPCE is to continue to look for answers and to share what we know with the Veteran and the healthcare community as well as seek out new knowledge to address these concerns.

AHBPCE Statement on COVID-19

We recognize that many Veterans are concerned about the potential for health effects from exposure to burn pits and other airborne hazards. It is known that exposures to respiratory irritants such as smoke from burn pits, oil fires, explosives, as well as sand and dust storms can cause a variety of symptoms such as irritation of the sinuses, mucous membranes and the respiratory tract. This can result in cough, chest tightness/discomfort and difficulty breathing. We also know Veterans may wonder how, if at all, airborne hazard exposures may impact them given the current situation with the coronavirus. We do know that Veterans who are over the age of 65 or who have underlying health conditions such as asthma, chronic lung problems or other underlying medical issues may be more susceptible and experience more severe symptoms if infected with the coronavirus as is seen in the general population.

The Airborne Hazards and Burn Pit Center of Excellence (AHBPCE) recommends that Veterans follow the CDC guidelines of social distancing, frequent handwashing, and avoid touching your mouth and eyes. The AHBCE continues to study the potential for longer term health implications from exposure to airborne hazards including smoke from burn pits. The VA and AHBPCE will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and all reliable scientific and medical information. As new information regarding this pandemic becomes available, we will continue to update the Veteran and provider community. To all our Veterans, stay safe and thank you for your service. Continue practices that can best support your health.

Below are the VA and DoD links for more information regarding COVID-19:

VA: https://www.publichealth.va.gov/n-coronavirus/index.asp

DoD: https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/Coronavirus/