Veterans with Burn Pit Exposure Warned of Additional Coronavirus Health Risks


Officials are warning veterans exposed to burn pits that they are at greater risk for respiratory complications related to the coronavirus outbreak. Sens. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., sent a letter to VA officials requesting a more comprehensive virus response for the more than 200,000 persons listed on the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry.

According to an article published by Military Times, “Typically full registration in the database includes an in-person exam by a medical professional, but most VA facilities are currently waiving that requirement in light of the ongoing pandemic. Last month, VA officials began sending emails to registry participants to warn them of possible vulnerabilities to coronavirus complications, which include severe respiratory deficiencies and failure.”

Relevant Pages: Veterans Disability