Information pertinent to the client’s case
The information crucial to this case is the environment that the client has been working on for nine years. The employees who work together with the client also share the same respiratory illness, which could mean that the sickness is not influenced by the seasons. The primary issue is whether there is sufficient evidence that the old building is the cause of the respiratory disease. This theory has to be proved by assessing the other workers to find out the type of the disease and the exact time when the illness is manifested. In case the colleagues are displaying similar symptoms as the client, it would be prudent to investigate the building for the presence of molds, mildew, and other factors in the building that could cause a disease outbreak. This needs to be done by the health officials.
Environmental risks that may affect the health of members of your community
Several environmental risks that could affect the community include higher precipitation rates, high storms, and winter seasons that interfere with road networks. Living near the mountains influence humidity and can alter pressure that can trigger risks of headaches. Notably, environmental changes influence alterations in the human body; for instance, high atmospheric pressure leads to vasoconstriction or vasodilation, which causes an abnormal flow of blood and triggers constant headaches (Okuma, Okuma & Kitagawa et al., 2015). Similarly, Grundy is faced with higher precipitation rates leading to depression attributed to the notable presence of clouds and dangerous roads due to accumulation of the snow. The area reports approximately 45 deaths per year attributed to risky driving during the snow seasons.
Strategies to address identified environmental risks in your community
Buchanan county has several approaches that can be used to mitigate health risks attributed to the environment (Grundy Virginia, 2019). For example, awareness of expected changes in weather patterns should help resigns to engage in regular physical exercises, stay hydrated, and avoid any kind of stimulants. These are aimed at reducing incidences of persistent headache, as explained by Huizen (2020). At the same time, depression brought by a cloudy environment can be managed by involving the residents in sports, giving supplements of vitamin D, and taking short vacations to warmer climates. Further, the problem of accidents due to driving on slippery roads during the snow season can be mitigated by analyzing the weather and ensuring that the vehicles have a maximum grip on the ground to prevent skidding. The drivers should also observe the speed limit, especially if it is snowing and reduced visibility.
References
Grundy, Virginia. (2019). 2020, February 14. Retrieved from
http://www.city-data.com/city/Grundy-Virginia.html
Huizen, J. (May 2020). What you should know about barometric pressure and headaches. Retrieved from:
Okuma, H., Okuma, Y., & Kitagawa, Y. (2015). Examination of fluctuations in atmospheric pressure related to migraine. Springer Plus, 4, 790. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40064-015-1592-4
