BP oil spill 'may have health impact'

Questions over whether the BP oil spill has had health consequences for local residents, divers and swimmers have been raised.

Today (June 21st), the Associated Press reported that while health officials say the leak has not had a significant impact on people who live near the Gulf of Mexico, it could take months or years before the real effects of the spill become known.

The article said: "There have been reports of illnesses, but relatively few among people not involved in the spill clean-up. Most of the reported illnesses were related to odours or fumes."

It also stated that there have been 109 cases of spill-related illnesses in Louisiana and 27 in Alabama.

According to the news agency, there have been several people complaining of headaches, nausea and irritation to the nose, eyes and throat.

It suggested that prolonged contact with the oil could have an effect on swimmers, as it causes swelling and burning of the skin as well.

Last week, BP chief executive Tony Hayward faced the US Congressional Committee in Washington for an interrogation on the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig.

Posted by Lauren Steadman